bastion
US /ˈbæs.ti.ən/
UK /ˈbæs.ti.ən/
1.
a projecting part of a fortification built at an angle to the line of a wall, so as to allow defensive fire in several directions
:
•
The ancient castle had several formidable bastions protecting its walls.
•
The engineers designed a new bastion to enhance the city's defenses.
2.
an institution, place, or person strongly defending or upholding particular principles, attitudes, or activities
:
•
The university has long been a bastion of academic freedom.
•
This small town remains a bastion of traditional values.