Nicolas de Fer held the title of geographer at Louis XIV's court. He was one of the most prolific publishers of plans of European cities in the late seventeenth century. The fortifications plans in Les Forces de l'Europe were designed to teach fortification techniques. Engraved by Van Loon and Schoonebeek after French engineers under the command of Vauban, the renowned military architect. The illustrations often include a description and a legend with the principal buildings; each city plan includes both fortifications and street layout.

This pair of fine views present the impressive hilltop castle of Mukacheve, then an important stronghold of the Hungarian Empire. The castle is surrounded by a moat with the inner bank protected by the high wooden fence or palanok. It is sometimes now referred to as Palanok Castle.

References: Pollak #21, p. 40.

Condition: B

Near fine with the exception of a couple of light spots of foxing.