Enclosed oppidum

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An enclosed oppidum was a type of large, late Iron Age settlement, or oppidum surrounded by an encircling bank and ditch. They differ from hillforts through being not necessarily sited on high ground and through being permanent settlements with a strong economic function. As well as re-occupying older hillfort sites they can also be found on valley sides and next to rivers. Evidence from archaeological excavation suggests they were centres for trade, politics and religion with certain areas within the enclosure being dedicated to each function. They are found in northern France, Belgium and southern Britain and cover areas in excess of 100,000 m².