Oppidum

By Crusader1307

Dating back to the 1st and 2nd Centuries B.C. - Oppidum's were first attempts at fortifying Villages and Cities. Developed in Northern Europe, large Village's and Cities were requiring more and more forms of protection from enemies. Even with the advent of Roman conquest's – Oppidum designs were still used. Cities that were built on plains or mounds (precursors to Hill Forts), were often recessed into the ground (30 to 50 feet), with roads and byways). This was the first design concept for The Oppidum. Next, large earthen walls were erected so as to completely encircle the settlement. Often wooden logs were used to created a recessed wall (against both the front and back). Some versions may have incorporated a narrow top walkway (for signaling and offensive purposes). With Roman influences, many Oppidum structures began to incorporate stone wallings instead of wood and earth (although this depended on the Region). Many Oppidum structure would evolve into the Medieval Fortress Cities – later in The Millennium.