Věnec, hradiště v Česku
Věnec is a hillfort on a hilltop near Zálezly in southern Bohemia, consisting of three distinct fortified areas connected by stone walls and natural rock faces. The entire site covers roughly 8 hectares, with the main acropolis area being irregularly semicircular and surrounded by walls up to 10 meters high, featuring a gateway on the southern side.
The site was established during the Hallstatt period and remained in use through the Latène period, dating back roughly 2000 years. Initial scholarly documentation occurred in 1840, with more extensive excavations conducted in the 1920s revealing that the location served primarily as a temporary refuge rather than a permanent settlement.
The name Věnec refers to the ring-shaped earthworks surrounding the hilltop, which define its structure and purpose. Visitors can observe how the arrangement of stone foundations and natural rock faces shaped how people used this space over many centuries.
Access is via a red marked hiking trail from Zálezly or through surrounding forest areas, with the path being clearly signposted throughout. Wear sturdy footwear due to rocky terrain, and bring supplies since no facilities or refreshments are available on site.
Despite the substantial size of the fortification, excavations yielded few artifacts, indicating the site served primarily as a refuge during times of need rather than as a permanent residence. This makes Věnec a rare example of a hillfort designed more for protection than daily habitation.
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