During the second century BC the dynasties of Herod and the Hasmoneans were responsible for a massive programme of fort development. Samuel Rocco examines the construction, design and history of these forts - ranging from the ancient fortress of Masada to Herod's own palace, the Temple Mount and the walls that defended Jerusalem in three centuries of civil stife and conflict with Rome.

Modern photography and full-color artwork recreate the sites, whilst thrilling accounts of the sieges that these forts endured and thoughtful analysis of the successes and failures of their defensive features illustrate their importance in early Judaean history.