Ballista

A ballista is an ancient weapon similar to a large crossbow, designed to launch projectiles over long distances. It was used primarily in ancient warfare, particularly by the Romans and Greeks, to hurl heavy stones, bolts, or incendiaries at enemy fortifications or troops. The mechanism typically consisted of two arms that were drawn back and then released to propel the projectile, utilizing tension or torsion. Ballistae were effective for siege warfare and played a significant role in military technology before the advent of gunpowder and firearms.