citadel
US /ˈsɪt̬.ə.del/
UK /ˈsɪt̬.ə.del/

1.
a fortress, typically on high ground, protecting or dominating a city
:
•
The ancient citadel stood proudly overlooking the city.
•
The invaders found it difficult to breach the strong citadel.
2.
a strong, secure place or position
:
•
The university is a citadel of academic freedom.
•
He built a financial citadel to protect his assets.