How Wide Was the Defense Range of the Ancient Great Wall

The defense range of the ancient Great Wall was not simply limited to the physical structure itself. It extended both in front of and behind the wall. In the forward direction, the area within the line of sight from the watchtowers was closely monitored. This could range from a few kilometers in flat areas to several hundred meters in mountainous regions, depending on visibility. Scouts were often deployed further out to detect any signs of approaching enemies. Behind the wall, there were support areas. These included granaries to store food, barracks to house soldiers, and arsenals to keep weapons. The defense range also encompassed the control of nearby trade routes and water sources. By securing these elements, the defenders could sustain a long siege and prevent the enemy from bypassing the wall through alternative means. The overall defense concept was a comprehensive one, aiming to protect the empire from all possible angles.