Junkarsborg, Medieval hillfort on river island in Raseborg, Finland
Junkarsborg is a medieval fortification consisting of earthen ramparts that encircle a forested island in the Svartå river near Raseborg. The rectangular defensive walls sit on elevated terrain and mark where a garrison once monitored river traffic and protected surrounding lands.
The site began as a defensive settlement in the early 1300s and functioned as a guardpost for roughly a century. Its role diminished once Raseborg Castle was built on the mainland as a more powerful fortress.
The earthwork fortification shows how medieval commanders chose island locations for defense, creating a stronghold that protected settlements in the river valley below.
Access to the site is on foot via walking paths since it sits on an isolated island in the river. Wear sturdy shoes as the wooded terrain can be slippery, especially after rain or in wet seasons.
Excavations over several decades unearthed coins from the late 14th century that helped archaeologists confirm exactly when the garrison lived and worked here. These discoveries provided concrete evidence for dating the occupation period.
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