Hakastaron linna, Medieval hillfort in Salo, Finland
Hakastaron linna is a medieval fortification built on elevated ground near Salo, with steep cliffs framing its northern and western sides. The eastern and southern areas slope more gradually, and you can still see parts of the original defensive structures.
The fortification was built around the mid-1200s using lime mortar, clay, and sand, which set it apart from other structures of its time. This construction method was unusual for defensive works in the region and shows careful planning.
The name comes from local tradition and hints at the lives of people who made this hilltop their home. Walking through the site, you can sense how important this location was for early communities in the region.
The site is open and accessible from the outside, with visible remains of defensive ramparts especially on the eastern side. Wear proper footwear, as the ground is uneven and some sections are steep.
The hill hosts rare plant species like wild garlic and filipendula that hint at long human occupation and land use. These botanical features reveal how people shaped the landscape over many centuries.
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