Costești-Cetățuie Dacian fortress, Ancient Dacian fortress in Hunedoara County, Romania.
Costești-Cetățuie is an ancient Dacian fortress in Hunedoara County built with stone walls, rectangular towers, and earth ramparts spread across multiple height levels. The fortification combines horizontal rows of limestone blocks with timber connections and curved defensive earthworks.
The fortress was built in the 1st century BC under King Burebista to serve as a strategic stronghold in the region. It fell to Roman forces in 106 AD during the Roman conquest of Dacia.
The fortress reflects Dacian building practices that blend earthen ramparts with stone foundations and timber reinforcement structures. The construction methods visible today reveal how locals adapted their techniques to the mountainous terrain.
The southeastern entrance provides access via the ancient road running through the horseshoe-shaped earth rampart. The site requires sturdy footwear for navigating uneven terrain and climbing the steep hillside paths.
The site contained an advanced water collection system with bedrock storage pits that captured rainwater for the fortress inhabitants. This engineering solution compensated for the lack of natural springs on the elevated hilltop location.
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