It was a powerful stone-throwing catapult that was first used by the Macedonian army of Philip II. It consisted of a powerful wooden frame and one long beam whose utmost end was supported by a torsion spring, the “neura” and the other utmost end had a leather belt where the launch stone was placed. The torsion springs were comprised of twisted ropes from animal sinews or women’s hair. The beam was cocked with a rope wound around an axle which was turned with the help of handspikes and its rapid release was achieved with the help of a special claw. The monagon catapult was gradually replaced by the catapults with two elbows which ensured accurate shots. It reappeared in the Roman era where a regression also in this sector is observed.
