RAVELIN PARK.
Ravelin park occupies the site of fortifications built by Sir Bernard de Gomme between 1665 and 1685. The area of Old Portsmouth used to be surrounded by defencive
fortifications including walls, bastions, a moat and tall triangular constructions known as ravelins.
Ravelins were located beyond the city wall. Their initial function was as a fortification, however, if and when overrun, defenders could fall back and fire down into the ravelin
from the wall above. The triangular shape of the ravelin would force a wave of attackers to divide before getting to the city wall.
During the 19th century the fortifications were demolished, the site became the city's army garrison headquarters. Ravelin House, Town Mount and Gun House were built,
being used to house senior army officers.
The army left the site in the 1960's and the land was transferred in 1969 to Portsmouth Polytechnic, which later became the Universtiy of Portsmouth.
