What Were the Best Places to Build Iron Age Settlement?

By Alice Nichols

The Iron Age was a period in human history that began around 1200 BC and lasted until the start of the Common Era. During this time, iron tools and weapons were developed and used for the first time.

It was a period of great innovation, with advances in agriculture, architecture, warfare, and more. As such, it is not surprising that many Iron Age settlements were established during this period.

The best places to build Iron Age settlements were areas that provided access to resources such as water, wood, and stone. Being close to a river was particularly advantageous as it meant easy access to water for drinking and bathing as well as a source of fish for food. Areas with good soil were also desirable because they could be used for agricultural purposes.

It was also important to be situated in an area that offered protection from enemies. Hilltop locations were often favored due to their elevated position and strategic advantages over lower-lying regions. Sites with natural barriers such as rivers or forests could also provide protection from invading forces.

The Iron Age settlements typically consisted of circular huts made from mud and straw with thatched roofs. They ranged in size from small villages to larger towns with up to ten thousand inhabitants. The huts would often be arranged in clusters around an open communal space where people could gather for social events or religious ceremonies.

In conclusion, when looking for the best places to build an Iron Age settlement, it is important to take into consideration factors such as access to resources like water, wood and stone; protection from enemies; and good soil for agricultural purposes. Such sites would usually consist of circular huts arranged around a communal space providing shelter and support for the inhabitants.