These geometric citadels are stunning from the sky The list of castles around the world is long and wondrous, from spooky buildings like the Bran Castle in Romania to picturesque French castles you can actually buy. But a lesser-known type of castle is the star fort.
First designed in the mid-15th century in Italy, star forts were new geometric fortresses created in response to changing battlefield tactics. Hilltop, ring-shaped castles proved effective until the advent of cannons, which rendered tall castle walls useless.
Star forts used a complex system of triangular bastions, thicker and lower walls, and wide ditches that exposed attacking infantry and protected outer walls from artillery. They held sway as the fortification of choice throughout much of Europe until the 19th century, when the development of more powerful artillery required simpler, more robust forts. Today, the star forts that remain are gorgeous historical artifacts, some abandoned and overgrown while others thrive as small towns. While most of the star forts are concentrated in Europe and?somewhat surprisingly?the American Northeast, there are star fortifications all over the world. We?ve rounded up 9 of the prettiest.
Palmanova, Italy:

Palmanova, located in northeastern Italy, is famous for its concentric fortress plan known as a star fort. The three rings that surround the town were completed in 1593, 1690, and 1813, respectively. A photo posted by Daily Overview (@dailyoverview) on M...