A space for defence: The Cadiz cove as a model for fortification and navigation in the early modern Spanish Atlantic
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Alberto J. Gullón Abao [1] ; Lilyam Padrón Reyes [1]
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[1] Universidad de Cádiz
Universidad de Cádiz
Cádiz, España
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- Localización: International journal of maritime history, ISSN 0843-8714, Vol. 35, Nº. 2, 2023, págs. 153-169
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
During the early modern age, La Caleta, as a strategic cove into the Bay of Cadiz, underwent numerous defensive improvements to protect the Cadiz emporium from possible attacks by other powers. These engineering works were to become a model for Spanish military architecture. The mobility of military engineers made significant contributions to reinforcing and upholding the Spanish Atlantic Bridge, not only through the Carrera de Indias, but also through the transmission of scientific and military knowledge, which was a major feature of Bourbon reformism. The multidimensional nature of this phenomenon is clearly illustrated by the fortification of Cadiz as the monarchy's main commercial port and naval base, which involved not only defensive improvements, but also aids to navigation – measures that were also applied in South American harbours during the eighteenth century.
