שופטים, פרק ט׳, פסוק נ״א

In the center of the city stood a fortified structure designed as a safe haven for the residents. The primary approach among commentators is that this building was an exceptionally strong fortress. As danger approached, the entire population of the town, both men and women alike, fled to this central refuge.

To protect themselves from the outside threat, the people firmly closed and locked the entrance behind them. Once the doors were secured, the residents took cover and climbed to the roof of the fortress.