Wain's Hill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wain's Hill |
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| Location | Clevedon, Somerset, England |
| Built | Iron Age |
| Official name: Wain's Hill, Clevedon | |
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Wain's Hill is an ancient hill fort from the Iron Age. It's located about one mile (1.6 km) southwest of Clevedon in Somerset, England. A hill fort is like a fortified village built on a hill. Wain's Hill has steep natural slopes on its north and south sides. On the east, it has two large banks of earth, called ramparts, that were built for protection.
What is a Hill Fort?
A hill fort is a type of fort built on a hill. People in the Iron Age often chose hills because they were naturally easy to defend. They would then add extra defenses like ditches and earth banks (ramparts). These forts were used for many things. They could be homes, places for trade, or safe spots during times of trouble.
History of Hill Forts
Hill forts first appeared in Britain during the Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age. This was around 1000 BC. People built them for different reasons. Some think they were built to defend against invaders. Others believe they were a response to growing populations. More people meant more competition for land and food.
Why Were They Built?
One main idea is that hill forts offered safety. When communities faced problems, these forts gave them a place to go. They weren't always built because of war. But they could be used as strongholds if fighting broke out. Some forts were even attacked and destroyed.
The discovery of iron also changed things. Iron ore was found in different places than the metals used for bronze. This changed how people traded. New groups of people gained power. Hill forts became important centers for these new communities.
