Blackbury Camp facts for kids
Blackbury Camp is an ancient hill fort from the Iron Age. It is located in Southleigh, Devon, England. A hill fort was a special kind of village or settlement built on top of a hill for protection. People lived there a very long time ago, during the Iron Age. This was a period in history when people started using iron tools and weapons.
What is Blackbury Camp?
Blackbury Camp is a type of ancient settlement called a hill fort. It was built on a high ridge, about 185 meters (607 feet) above sea level. This high spot made it easier to defend. The fort was protected by strong earth walls and ditches. These walls are still quite tall today.
How Was it Built?
The fort has a unique D-shape. It is about 200 meters (656 feet) long and 100 meters (328 feet) wide. It was defended by a single bank (a raised mound of earth) and a ditch. These acted like big fences to keep enemies out.
There was also a special entrance area called a barbican. This was a triangular part added to the south side of the fort. It was meant to make the entrance even more secure. However, it looks like this barbican was never fully finished.
Who Lived There?
Archaeologists believe people lived at Blackbury Camp during the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. This means it was used over 2,000 years ago! The people who lived there were likely farmers. They probably focused on raising cattle. The fort helped protect their animals and their homes.
Images for kids
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A 3D computer model of Blackbury Camp.
