Mound

Grave Creek Mound

Krakow 2006 195

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Kankali Tila (Jaini mound)

Estructura 101 de Yarumela

Mound is a type of artificial hill, typically constructed by humans from earth, stone, or other materials. Mounds have been used for a variety of purposes throughout human history, including as burial sites, for defensive structures, and as part of ceremonial or religious sites. They can be found across the world in different cultures and historical contexts.

Types of Mounds

There are several types of mounds, each serving different purposes and constructed in various ways:

Burial Mounds

Burial mounds, also known as tumuli, are among the oldest types of mounds. They were used by various cultures as part of their funerary practices. Burial mounds could contain one or multiple individuals and often included grave goods.

Effigy Mounds

Effigy mounds are mounds built in the shapes of animals, symbols, or geometric figures. These are primarily found in North America, particularly in the Upper Midwest. They were constructed by Native American cultures for religious, ceremonial, or burial purposes.

Defensive Mounds

Defensive mounds were used as part of fortifications. They provided elevated positions for defensive structures or were incorporated into the walls of a fort. Examples include motte in motte-and-bailey castles.

Ceremonial Mounds

Ceremonial mounds were constructed for religious or ceremonial purposes. These mounds could be platforms for temples or other structures. The Mississippian culture, for example, built large, flat-topped mounds for their temples and leaders' residences.

Construction

The construction of mounds varied depending on their purpose and the culture building them. Materials used could include earth, stone, and sometimes wood. The size of a mound could also vary significantly, from less than a meter in height to several meters tall.

Cultural Significance

Mounds hold significant cultural and historical importance in many societies. They can provide insight into the social structure, religious beliefs, and technological capabilities of the cultures that built them. Archaeological studies of mounds have helped historians and anthropologists understand more about ancient societies.

Preservation

Many mounds are considered important cultural heritage sites and are protected under various laws. Preservation efforts aim to protect these sites from erosion, vandalism, and other forms of damage.

See Also

• Pyramid
• Cairn
• Barrow (burial mound)
• Tell (archaeology)