There's not a tremendous amount to see, just a big mound with a moat round, and some wooden steps to the top.
For years it was assumed that this mount had had a large wooden tower on the top surrounded by a defensive palisade or wooden wall but in 2011 these assumptions were questioned by evidence (or lack of it) found during a dig led by Dr Carenza Lewis from Cambridge University as part of the Managing A Masterpiece project (she is also well know from C4's Time Team programme). (More information about the findings of the dig can be found here).
They found that it was more likely to be a look out post that was not permanently manned and was possibly built by enlarging an existing bronze age burial mound.
The views from the top are certainly impressive.
It seems to have been built about 1100-1150 and would have been very prominent in this isolated area and probably sent a clear 'go away' message to any unwelcome visitors!
I'm not sure we'll ever find out exactly who built it but I'm glad I stopped and walked up it.
10 comments:
It's fascinating that we've got these areas steeped in history, if only we knew the true meaning of the things we find hundreds of years on. I took History as one of my options at school, but I think I'm more interested in the subject now. I love learning about my local area, we've got so much history near where I live.
Another place I must explore - thank you for the introduction Su x
And I've now discovered Jo's blogs!
These kind of places fascinate me, wondering about the people who lived there before us. I remember Carenza from the time team and also Mick with the colourful jumpers, I wonder what happened to him/
Briony
x
Chuckling at the thought of an East Anglian mount Su. It looks as if it was the perfect day weather wise to get such good views from the summit. Fascinating to think how long it's been there and what tales it could tell if able to.
You are right about the fantastic views - I love the sense of history surrounding these places - if only it could talk.
Hello Su,
What a fascinating site and a remarkable view from the top. These ancient mounds are so intriguing, one cannot help but wonder what their function was and be touched by the sense of history that pervades them. You have followed the many, many footsteps of the past that have walked there. So exciting!
You do live in a most beautiful part of the country and it is one we know only in small part. Having found you by accident, we are now hooked to know more. We are your newest followers.
Its a fascinating place Sue. Its amazing that even in the 12th century they were making use of an ancient pre-existing site. History most definitely in the making.
It is surprisingly hilly in this part of Suffolk and lovely walking country. Have you been to Arger Fen which is near here? It is lovely at bluebell time.
It's nice to come across a fellow Suffolk blogger.
Oh, this all sounds interesting - will look out for it if we're down that way - I know hubby would be fascinated by this! xCathy. p.s. doing a Giveaway if you're interested.
How fascinating! We have a similar mound near here that awaits some interested archaeologists with sufficient funding, which is always the issue isn't it.
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