Oppidum of Hrazany, Celtic oppidum in Hrazany, Czech Republic

The Oppidum of Hrazany is a Celtic fortified settlement sprawling across two hills at the confluence of the Vltava and Mastník rivers. The site contained residential quarters with three-room houses featuring hearths and storage areas, along with distinct zones dedicated to craft production and metalworking.

The settlement was established in the mid-2nd century before Christ as an important trading post. It was abandoned between 30 and 20 before Christ, possibly linked to wider changes in the Celtic world.

The oppidum lay on a north–south trade route along the Vltava linking the Danube region with Linz, and caravans from the far south passed through it. Gate B, where merchants entered, still shows deep wheel ruts cut into its soil by their carts.

The site is accessible through several gates, with the northern entrance showing clear evidence of wheeled traffic from ancient trade routes. Visitors should expect uneven terrain and wear sturdy footwear, as walking across both hills requires careful footing.

Gate B on the northern side kept deep wheel ruts cut by the carts of trading caravans in its earthen passage. Attackers struck this gate, which was hastily blocked with timber and earth and then burned, yet the oppidum survived.