These amazing forts are particularly interesting to me because many times they protected a village in the center.
“Star-shaped forts are a particularly interesting type of fortification. They first appeared around the time that gunpowder became commonly used in warfare (first seen in the mid-15th century in Italy). The unusual shape of the forts and the fact that they were made of hard-to-shatter brick (rather than the traditional stone) helped the forts stand up to cannonball fire. These incredible structures are among the most memorable, the most beautiful, and the most historically important forts from around the world.
7. Bourtange, Netherlands
Fort Bourtange is a star fort located in the village of Bourtange, Groningen, Netherlands. It was built in 1593. Its original purpose was to control the only road between Germany and the city of Groningen. After experiencing its final battle in 1672, the Fort continued to serve in the defensive network on the German border until it was finally given up in 1851 and converted into a village. Fort Bourtange currently serves as a historical museum.”
Source: The World Geography.com