A hillfort is a type of fortified settlement built on elevated ground, often surrounded by earthworks such as ditches and banks. These structures were commonly constructed during the Iron Age and Bronze Age in Europe, serving as defensive strongholds for communities. Their strategic locations provided a vantage point for spotting potential threats. Hillforts typically housed a small population and included features like wooden or stone buildings, storage areas, and sometimes even places of worship. They played a crucial role in the social and political organization of ancient societies, reflecting the need for protection and community cohesion during turbulent times.