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THE MEDIEVAL MILITARY ARCHITECTURE IN THE URBAN CULTURAL LANDSCAPE BASED ON THE EXAMPLE OF WESTERN POMERANIA

I. Kozlowska, J. Arlet

Abstract

The paper focuses on the influence of medieval military architecture on the contemporary urban cultural landscape based on the example of the Polish area of Western Pomerania – a historical and geographic land located on the lower Oder. Analytical and statistical studies were carried out on the preserved resource of the medieval city walls. The aim was to determine the resource of military architecture in the areas of Western Pomerania, its valorisation and identify the role it plays in the cultural landscape of Western Pomerania. As a result of the research, it was found that one of the characteristic elements of the cultural landscape of the towns of Western Pomerania is their medieval defensive walls. Often they are the only original monuments preserved from the turmoil of World War II, or from the 'communist' period of architectural and urban destruction of the urban structure. It was also found that in large and medium-sized towns of Western Pomerania, which experienced intense development as a result of the industrial revolution in the 19th century, defortification of the medieval defensive walls and modern fortifications took place. At the same time, the stagnation and weak dynamics in the spatial and economic development of small towns such as Trzebiatów, Pyrzyce, Mory?, Chojna, Mieszkowice or Trzci?sko-Zdrój contributed to the preservation of military architecture. Among approx. 80% of small towns which were equipped with walls, the remnants of such works have survived to this day. Preserved medieval walls are distinguished by their aesthetic and visual value, enriching the space of the modern towns of Pomerania. The city defensive walls in Western Pomeranian are a valuable resource that is a testimony to medieval military thought, which should be protected, taking conservation and revitalization measures that cover all the defensive foundations.

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