Pike

soldier carrying a pike or similar long-handled weapon
Pilaster
shallow pier used to buttress wall ...

This asymmetry forces the right handed swordsman to engage the central pike and degrade his mobility compared with the defender who is facing down the stairs.

(Historic), Milford Boro, Pike County PA
Millionaires Row Historic District, c. 1885, (Historic), Williamsport City, Lycoming County PA
Milton Historic District, c. , (Historic), Milton Boro, Northumberland County PA ...

See also: Castle, Tower, House, Church, Pitch