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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle

Why did the Romans build their forts square?

Square ... an artists’ impression of the imperial Roman fort at Healam Bridge in North Yorkshire. Photograph: Alan Marshall/Heron Recreations/PA Wire
Foursquare ... an artists’ impression of the imperial Roman fort at Healam Bridge in North Yorkshire. Photograph: Alan Marshall/Heron Recreations/PA Wire

Why did the Romans, a logical people, build their forts square? A circle encloses a bigger surface for the same length of wall and lacks hard-to-defend corners. It also generally fits hilltops and other natural defensive spaces better.

Peter Taylor-Gooby, Canterbury, Kent

• Post your answers – and new questions – below or email them to nq@theguardian.com

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