During the time before the invention and widespread use of gunpowder, various siege weapons were employed for both offensive and defensive purposes. Here are some examples:

Offensive Siege Weapons:

Battering Ram: A large, heavy wooden beam with a metal tip used to ram and break down gates or fortifications.
Siege Tower: A tall, multi-story mobile tower with a platform on top that allowed attackers to gain access to the walls of a fortification.
Mangonel: A type of catapult that used torsion to launch projectiles, such as stones or incendiary devices, at fortifications.
Ballista: A large crossbow-like weapon that fired large bolts or stones with high accuracy and force.
Onager: Similar to a ballista, the onager used torsion to propel stones or other projectiles at enemy defenses.
Defensive Siege Weapons:

Moat: A water-filled trench surrounding a fortification to impede attackers and provide an additional layer of defense.
Caltrops: Metal spikes arranged in a way that one of the spikes always points upward, making it difficult for horses or soldiers to advance.
Hoarding: A wooden shield-like structure extending from the walls of a fortification, providing cover for defenders while allowing them to attack from above.
Machicolations: Openings or openings in the floor of a fortification through which defenders could drop projectiles or attack enemies below.
Barbican: A fortified outpost or gatehouse placed in front of the main entrance to a fortification, serving as an additional defensive barrier.
These are just a few examples of siege weapons that were used before the advent of gunpowder. It's important to note that different regions and time periods had variations of these siege weapons, and their designs and effectiveness evolved over time.
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