Žardės piliakalnis, Archaeological hillfort in Klaipeda, Lithuania
Žardės piliakalnis is an archaeological hillfort in Klaipeda with a circular platform surrounded by earthen embankments that mark an ancient fortification. The site sits beside the Smeltale River and contains layers of settlement remains spanning several centuries.
The fortification originated in the first millennium when a Curonian castle stood here, documented in historical records from 1253. Settlement activity continued until the 13th century before the site was eventually abandoned.
The name comes from a nearby settlement, and discovered items like weaving weights and bronze ornaments show how people here worked with their hands daily. These finds reveal a functioning community with crafts and regular activities.
The site is easy to reach by heading down Žardupes Street from Taikos Avenue and walking toward the riverside location. The relatively flat surrounding area makes it straightforward to explore and walk around without difficulty.
Remains of iron smelting furnaces were discovered here, showing that metalworking and specialized crafts took place at this location. This metal production indicates the community had the skills and resources for advanced activities.
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