Aronas pilskalns, Archaeological hillfort in Bērzaune Parish, Latvia
Aronas pilskalns is a fortified hilltop settlement in Bērzaune Parish featuring a raised rectangular platform with protective steep banks. The structure shows signs of deliberate construction with engineered water channels that served defensive purposes.
The hillfort saw intensive occupation from the 11th to 14th century, while wooden remains date its initial construction to around 220 BCE. This long period of use shows the site remained an important settlement across multiple eras.
The site incorporates two distinct cultural layers, revealing different periods of occupation and providing insights into ancient settlement patterns of Latvia.
The site is located about 4 kilometers east of Bērzaune village near the P37 road and is accessible for visits. Visitors can explore the original defensive earthworks and structures that remain visible on the ground.
The site features two artificial water dams that directed water into specific zones to create natural defensive ditches. This water engineering reveals that the builders possessed sophisticated knowledge of both construction and defense.
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