Iron Age hill forts were fortified settlements built during the Iron Age, roughly between 800 BC and AD 100. These structures were typically located on elevated ground, providing a strategic advantage for defense against invaders. They often featured earthworks, such as ditches and banks, to enhance protection and were surrounded by wooden or stone walls. Inside the hill forts, communities thrived with homes, storage facilities, and sometimes communal spaces. These sites served as centers for trade, social gatherings, and agricultural activities. Many hill forts, like those found in Britain and Europe, are significant archaeological sites that offer insights into the lives of ancient peoples.