Caer

Caer

Caer, a fortified settlement in ancient Celtic culture

Caer is a term used in ancient Celtic culture to refer to a fortified settlement. These settlements played a crucial role in the social and political organization of the Celts, providing protection and serving as centers of trade and governance. The word "caer" is derived from the Proto-Celtic word *kagro, meaning "enclosure" or "fortress".

Etymology

The term "caer" is believed to have originated from the Proto-Celtic word *kagro, which evolved into the Old Welsh word caer and the Old Irish word cathir. The word has also been linked to the Latin word castrum, meaning "fort" or "encampment". This suggests a possible influence of Roman military architecture on Celtic fortifications.

Characteristics

Caers were typically constructed on elevated sites, such as hills or promontories, to maximize their defensive capabilities. They were often surrounded by multiple defensive features, including ramparts, ditches, and palisades. The size and complexity of caers varied, ranging from small hillforts to large urban settlements.

Function

Caers served as important centers of social, economic, and political activity within Celtic society. They provided protection against external threats, such as rival tribes or invading forces. Additionally, caers facilitated trade and commerce, as they were often strategically located along trade routes. These settlements also functioned as administrative and religious centers, housing the ruling elite and serving as sites for religious ceremonies and gatherings.

Examples

Several notable examples of caers have been discovered throughout Celtic territories. One such example is the Iron Age hillfort of Maiden Castle in Dorset, England. Spanning over 47 acres, it is one of the largest and most complex hillforts in Europe. Another prominent caer is the oppidum of Bibracte in present-day France, which served as the capital of the Aedui tribe during the Gallic Wars.

Legacy

The concept of caers has left a lasting impact on Celtic culture and history. Many modern-day place names in Celtic regions, such as Wales and Scotland, incorporate the term "caer" as a prefix or suffix. Additionally, the architectural principles and defensive strategies employed in caer construction have influenced subsequent fortification designs throughout history.

See also

• Hillfort
• Oppidum
• Celtic culture
• Iron Age

External links

• Britannica - Caer
• Ancient History Encyclopedia - Caer