Citadel

CITADEL. Fortifications within Hebrew towns. The term should probably be applied only to the final defense unit of a city. This might include the palace (1Kgs.16.18) or sometimes the temple (Neh.2.8). See also Castle.

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CITADEL. Fortifications within Heb. towns were often called מִגְדָּל, H4463, tr. “tower.” It is probable that the term “citadel” should be applied only to the inner or final defense unit of the city (cf. Judg 9:50-54). This might include the palace, with accessory buildings, and sometimes the temple. It would be built on the highest part of the site for additional security. Citizens settled around the citadel, protected by a second, or outer line of walls. The citadel was a miniature of the larger fortified city, with main wall, gate, and sometimes a moat. Small in area it was usually the scene of the city’s last stand. Some recently excavated small citadel towers indicate that even the doors were eliminated the final defenders entering by ladders. See Castle.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1915)

(1 Macc 1:33; 3:45).

See Fortification.