Zitadelle

citadel, fortress

noun tsee-ta-DEL-leh Rare

Origin: from Italian 'cittadella', small city

Usage Note

Zitadelle is a strongly fortified inner stronghold within or near a city, designed as a last line of defence. Several German cities have prominent Zitadellen that are now cultural venues or museums. Plural Zitadellen.

Examples

"Die Zitadelle Spandau ist eine der am besten erhaltenen Renaissancefestungen in Deutschland."

Natural Translation

The Spandau Citadel is one of the best-preserved Renaissance fortresses in Germany.

Literal Translation

The citadel Spandau is one of the best-preserved Renaissance-fortresses in Germany.

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