the fort was built as an irregular rectangle, in contrast to most brialmont forts, which were triangular. a deep by ditch encircles the fort. the principal armament was concentrated in the central massif. the ditches were defended in enfilade by 57mm guns in casemates resembling counterscarp batteries, firing at shot traps at the other end of the ditch. the fort is one of the smallest liège forts. embourg is more elevated above the surrounding country than most of the liège forts, overlooking the ourthe and vesdre valleys and controlling the road from liège to spa.