mǎmiàn en

Mamian 馬面, literally "horse face," is a defensive structure within a traditional Chinese city wall. The mamian is prominent on the outer surface of the wall and can be taller than or equal to the height of the city wall. According to literature and archeological evidence, most mamian are solid masonry. It is named for its narrow façade and long shape like a horse head. Its main function was to increase the defensive capacity of the city wall by eliminating blind corners, which were vulnerable to attacks from the side. Mamian also played a role in strengthening the city wall. Mamian were clearly defined in texts as early as the Song dynasty and remained in use through the Qing dynasty.