What role did a covered way play in a sunken-profile fortress?

In a sunken-profile fortress, the covered way served as a critical tactical feature located behind the glacis. It functioned as a level, sunken space that allowed defenders to assemble safely out of the attackers' sight. This positioning enabled troops to organize and launch a sortie—a sudden defensive counterattack—while remaining protected from enemy fire.1

Structurally, the covered way ran along the top of the counterscarp and was shielded by an embankment whose outer slope formed the glacis. By providing this concealed area, the covered way enhanced the defensive capabilities of the fortress, allowing for the movement and deployment of troops without exposing them to direct observation or battery fire from the besieging forces.21