Prehistoric Linear Boundary Earthworks
Introductions to Heritage Assets
An introduction to prehistoric linear boundary earthworks.
Prehistoric linear earthworks range in length from a few tens of metres to more than 80 km (50 miles). Many of the shorter and straighter examples are so-called ‘cross-dykes’ or ‘cross-ridge dykes’, which span narrow necks of land, running between steep slopes or sheer escarpments.
Descriptions of prehistoric linear boundary earthworks and their development along with a brief chronology are included. Linear earthworks may relate directly to various artificial features, such as burial monuments and hillforts. So-called ‘multiple ditch systems’ share certain characteristics with oppida; namely, they are also of Late Iron Age origin and appear to have bounded areas where a wide range of settlement, economic, political and religious activities took place.
Contents
- Summary
- Introduction
- Description
- Chronology
- Development of the asset type
- Associations
- Further reading
- Where to get advice
Additional Information
- Series: Guidance
- Publication Status: Completed
- Pages: 16
- Product Code: HEAG219
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