Cisterns

Definition

Cisterns are underground reservoirs or storage tanks used to collect and store rainwater or spring water for drinking and irrigation purposes. In the context of ancient fortifications, these structures were crucial for maintaining a water supply during sieges, providing a strategic advantage to defenders by ensuring access to fresh water even when external supplies were cut off.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cisterns were often built with thick walls to prevent evaporation and contamination of the stored water.
2. In many ancient cities, cisterns were integrated into the defensive structures, making them harder for enemies to target during a siege.
3. The design of cisterns varied based on location and available resources, with some being simple pits while others were more elaborate chambers with filtration systems.
4. During sieges, access to cisterns could determine the length of time a city could withstand an attack before succumbing to thirst and starvation.
5. Cisterns played a critical role in the daily lives of ancient inhabitants, supporting agriculture and hygiene by providing a reliable water source.

Review Questions

• How did cisterns enhance the defensive capabilities of fortified cities during sieges?
  • Cisterns significantly improved the defensive capabilities of fortified cities by providing a reliable source of fresh water during sieges. When an enemy surrounded a city, they would often cut off external water supplies, but cisterns allowed defenders to access stored rainwater. This access could prolong the resistance against siege tactics, as it helped maintain the health and morale of those inside the fortifications.
• Discuss the architectural features that distinguish cisterns from other water storage methods in ancient fortifications.
  • Cisterns are distinguished from other water storage methods by their underground construction and design that minimizes evaporation and contamination. Unlike above-ground tanks or reservoirs, cisterns are typically dug into the earth or built with thick walls. They often include features like sloped floors to facilitate drainage and filtration systems to keep the water clean. These architectural details made them particularly effective for long-term storage during periods of siege.
• Evaluate the impact of cistern technology on the sustainability of ancient cities during prolonged conflicts.
  • Cistern technology had a profound impact on the sustainability of ancient cities during prolonged conflicts by ensuring a consistent supply of water even when faced with sieges. This reliability enabled defenders to endure longer periods without surrendering due to thirst or lack of sanitation. The presence of well-constructed cisterns could mean the difference between survival and capitulation for a besieged population, influencing military strategies and outcomes throughout history.

Related terms

Aqueducts: Man-made channels designed to transport water from one location to another, often used in conjunction with cisterns to ensure a steady supply.

Siege: A military tactic involving surrounding and blockading a fortified place in order to compel the surrender of those inside.

Fortifications: Structures built to protect a place from attack, including walls, towers, and gates, which often included essential features like cisterns for defense.