Castro de Achadizo facts for kids

Castro de Achadizo is a ruined site in Province of A Coruña, Galicia, Spain. It is an ancient settlement known as a castro, which was a type of fortified village built by people who lived in this region a very long time ago, during the Iron Age. These sites are important because they help us understand how ancient communities lived and protected themselves.

What is a Castro?

A castro is a special kind of ancient village, often built on a hill. These settlements were common in parts of Europe, especially in Galicia, during the Iron Age. This period was roughly from 800 BC to 50 AD. People chose hills because they offered a good view of the surrounding land. This made it easier to spot enemies or other dangers from far away.

Life in an Iron Age Castro

Life in a castro was all about community. Families lived together in round or oval houses, often made of stone with thatched roofs. These houses were usually grouped inside strong walls. People farmed the land outside the castro, growing crops like wheat and barley. They also raised animals such as sheep, goats, and cattle. Craftspeople made tools, pottery, and jewelry. Everyone worked together to survive and protect their home.

Why were Castros Built?

Castros were built for safety and defense. The people living in them faced challenges like raids from other groups. To protect themselves, they constructed strong walls, ditches, and sometimes multiple layers of defenses around their villages. The high location on a hill also gave them a natural advantage. These defenses helped keep the community safe and secure.

The Castro de Achadizo

The Castro de Achadizo is one example of these ancient settlements. Like many castros, it was strategically placed to offer protection and a good view. Today, it is a ruined site, meaning that most of the original structures are no longer standing. However, archaeologists have studied the remains to learn about the people who once lived there. They look for clues like old pottery, tools, and the foundations of houses.

Exploring Achadizo Today

When you visit a castro like Achadizo today, you might see the remains of stone walls or the outlines of ancient houses. These visible parts are like puzzle pieces that help us imagine what the village looked like thousands of years ago. Studying these sites helps historians and archaeologists understand the daily lives, beliefs, and challenges of the Iron Age people in Galicia. It's like stepping back in time to learn about our ancestors.