Selgovae facts for kids
The Selgovae were an ancient tribe who lived in what is now the Scottish Borders in Scotland. They were part of the Brythonic people, who spoke an early form of the Welsh language.
Their main town was a large hillfort on the North Eildon hill, close to the modern town of Melrose. This hillfort was huge, covering about 40 acres. Experts believe around 2,500 people lived there. The Selgovae left this fort in 79 AD when the Roman army moved into their land.
Contents
Selgovae Hillforts
The Selgovae built many hillforts across their territory. These forts were like fortified villages, often on top of hills for protection.
Important Selgovae Settlements
Besides the North Eildon hillfort, other Selgovae hillforts have been found. These include:
- Caidemuir Hill, near Peebles
- Dreva Craig, near Broughton
- Rubers Law, near Hawick
- Whiteside Hill, near Romannobridge
- Abory Hill, near Abington
- Cow Castle, near Coulter
- Quothquan Law, near Thankerton
- Bodsberry Hill, near Crawford
- Another fort at Crawford itself
At a place called Tamshiell Rigg, archaeologists have found signs of a settlement that had walls. This shows the Selgovae were skilled builders.
Roman Forts in Selgovae Land
Even after the Romans arrived, some Roman forts were built in what used to be Selgovae lands. These Roman forts were north of Hadrian's Wall, which was a big wall built by the Romans to protect their territory.
- Birrens
- Netherby
- Bewcastle
Selgovae in History
In the 100s AD, the Selgovae were known as one of the four main kingdoms in ancient Scotland. This means they were an important and powerful group.
However, by the end of the 300s AD, their area was taken over. A leader named Coel Hen and his kingdom of North Britain gained control of the land. This marked a big change for the Selgovae people.
Images for kids
-
frameless
-
Location of the Selgovae town of Trimontium according to Roy, who was trying to reconcile problems with the spurious De Situ Britanniae.
