Natural obstacles in the defensive system of the Tara fortress (preliminary research results of 2013-2017)

Several factors contribute to the successful defense of fortified objects. These include defensive walls and towers, moats and ramparts, hurdles and other obstacles. The weapons used by defenders are also essential. These factors are in the focus of research. Less attention is paid to natural obstacles hampering approaches to the fortress. Military art, defense tactics, schemes of attacking and defense are often excluded from archeological research. Studies of natural barriers contributing to the Tara fortress defense can partly fill up the gap in this matter. Having considered the natural and geographical situation in the area, the author concludes that two rivers, two marshes, and two ravines were serious obstacles for approaching and military assault of the fortress.