This is not a total invention, but the optimization of an existing weapon. In Leonardo’s time, in fact, bombards were used in sieges. Their large mouth allowed them to fire large projectiles that could easily open large breaches in enemy defenses. However, the machines were decidedly heavy and required a long time to be maneuvered. In addition, they were completely ineffective in open field. Leonardo studied the problem by optimizing the war machine, he made reloading easier and quicker, attenuated the recoil, designed a rapid aiming system. And above all, he invented a new type of “ballotta” (as the bombard projectiles of the time were called), that is, a projectile that, once launched, split into many explosive bombs.

Leonardo da Vinci’s Bombarda is like the Renaissance version of a heavy-duty cannon taking the idea of firepower to a whole new level. Imagine a massive, tank-like artillery piece, designed to unleash destruction from a distance. This wasn’t just a regular cannon; it was a beast of a weapon, meant to hurl enormous stones or explosive projectiles with deadly precision.

Picture it: a giant, sturdy cannon mounted on a four-wheeled platform, giving it mobility for battlefields. It’s armed with huge barrels that could fire heavy ammunition, and its design includes reinforced armor to protect it from enemy fire. This wasn’t just about firepower, it was about creating a psychological impact—when your enemies see this beast rolling in, they’re more likely to panic than fight.

Leonardo’s Bombarda was his answer to medieval warfare, designed to bring devastation with both raw strength and engineering innovation. Forget about subtlety, it was all about delivering the big boom, centuries before the world saw modern artillery.

Leonardo da Vinci’s Bombarda works like a massive, mobile artillery cannon designed for heavy firepower, intended to unleash chaos on the battlefield.

Here’s how it functions in a nutshell:

The Giant Cannon
The Bombarda is essentially a large cannon mounted on a four-wheeled platform, making it mobile and easy to maneuver in battle. The wheels allow it to be moved into position for a direct attack, ensuring that it can be repositioned on the battlefield as needed.

Firing Mechanism
The cannon’s barrel is designed to fire large projectiles like stone balls or explosive shells. The mechanism for launching these massive projectiles is fairly simple but effective: it uses gunpowder (or an early version of explosive powder) to create the force needed to propel the ammunition.
When the trigger is pulled, the powder inside the barrel ignites, producing a powerful explosion that forces the stone projectile forward at great speed.

Recoil Control
Given the size and power of this weapon, recoil (the backward force) would have been significant. To counter this, Leonardo likely designed a reinforced platform that would absorb the shock and prevent the cannon from tipping over. The sturdy wheels and solid frame would keep the Bombarda stable during and after firing.

Armored Protection
The Bombarda would also feature some reinforced armor around its barrel to protect it from enemy fire, allowing it to endure the chaos of battle without being easily disabled. This makes it a formidable piece of artillery in any siege or battle.

Long-range Destruction
With its massive size and power, the Bombarda was designed to cause devastating damage over long distances. Whether it was hurling giant stones or explosive shells, it could smash through walls, fortifications, or enemy formations, leaving chaos in its wake. Its psychological impact was also significant—nothing would strike fear like the sight of this giant rolling onto the battlefield!