Deceangli facts for kids
The Deceangli (pronounced Dee-see-ANG-lee) were an ancient Celtic tribe who lived in Britain before the powerful Roman Empire invaded the island. They were one of many tribes living in what is now Great Britain. Their home was in the northern part of Wales, near the modern city of Chester.
Historians are not completely sure about the exact borders of the Deceangli's land. It might have covered areas like Flintshire and Denbighshire today, and also parts of Cheshire. This tribe lived in strong hill forts, which were like fortified villages built on hills for protection. These forts formed a chain through the Clwydian Range of hills. Their main town, or tribal capital, was called Canovium.
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Who Were the Deceangli?
The Deceangli were a group of people who lived in Britain long before it became the country we know today. They were part of a larger group called the Celts. The Celts were known for their unique language, art, and way of life. The Deceangli, like other Celtic tribes, had their own leaders and customs.
Where Did They Live?
The Deceangli made their home in the northern part of what is now Wales. Their territory was close to the modern city of Chester. This area is known for its beautiful hills and valleys. It was a good place for a tribe to settle, offering both resources and natural defenses.
Their Homes and Capital
The Deceangli built their homes and communities in hill forts. These were large, fortified settlements on top of hills. They used earthworks and sometimes stone walls to protect themselves from enemies. These hill forts were important centers for the tribe. Their main capital town was called Canovium. This was likely the most important settlement for the Deceangli people.
The Romans Arrive
The Roman Empire was very powerful and wanted to expand its control. In 48 AD, a Roman general named Publius Ostorius Scapula led attacks against the British tribes. The Deceangli were one of the first tribes to be attacked by the Romans in this region. The Romans were very organized and had a strong army.
Roman Forts and Settlements
Even though the Romans attacked the Deceangli, there isn't a known large Roman town built right in their territory. However, there was a Roman military fort called Canovium (Caerhun). This fort was probably located within the Deceangli's lands. Sometimes, small towns or settlements grew up around Roman forts, where civilians lived and traded with the soldiers.
Mining for Riches
The Romans were very interested in the natural resources of the lands they conquered. In the areas where the Deceangli lived, the Romans found valuable minerals. They started mining for lead and silver. These metals were very important for the Roman Empire. Lead was used for pipes and other building materials, and silver was used for coins and jewelry.
Lead and Silver Discoveries
Evidence of Roman mining has been found in the Deceangli's former lands. Several large blocks of lead, called "sows," have been discovered. These lead blocks often had Roman markings on them. For example, one lead sow found near Chester weighed 192 pounds! It had markings that showed it belonged to the Roman Emperor Vespasian and mentioned the Deceangli. Another lead sow, found near Tarvin Bridge, weighed 179 pounds and was dated to 74 AD. These discoveries show how active the Romans were in mining these valuable metals. You can see these ancient lead blocks on display at the Grosvenor Museum.
See also
- List of Celtic tribes
- Prehistoric Wales
