Ancient settlement of the Iron Age

Iron Age Hillfort – one of the most mysterious archaeological monuments in Belarus, is located 0.8 km west of the village of Horadishcha, in the Horadok area, on the banks of the Servach River. This ancient fortified settlement consists of an elongated hill surrounded by a ditch and ramparts, which testify to a well-developed defensive system. The initial construction dates back to the 2nd–4th centuries, with significant renovations occurring in the 11th–13th centuries. Some researchers believe that this could have been the legendary Voruta – the residence of the first Lithuanian prince, Mindaugas.

Today, this site is a unique archaeological object that attracts both scholars and history enthusiasts. The ramparts and ditches that have been preserved to this day allow us to imagine what the ancient fortification looked like. The hillfort is shrouded in mysteries and hypotheses, and its possible connection to Mindaugas makes it particularly interesting for researchers of the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

History of Creation

The Iron Age Hillfort was built during the early feudal period and was likely used as a defensive and administrative center. Its fortifications included wooden walls, palisades, massive ramparts, and ditches. The first settlements in this area appeared as early as the 2nd–4th centuries, but the fortification reached its peak in the 11th–13th centuries, when it could have become an important center of early Lithuanian statehood.

One of the most intriguing hypotheses associated with this hillfort is the assumption of its connection to Mindaugas, the first prince of Lithuania. Chronicles mention the city of Voruta, where his castle was located. Historian Vladimir Pashuto was one of the first to propose the hypothesis that Voruta might have been located here. However, this theory remains controversial: opponents argue that the distance from Aukštaitian Lithuania to the lands of Navahrudak is too great.

Current State

Today, the Iron Age Hillfort is a highly valuable archaeological monument that continues to be a subject of research and discussion. The fortifications, ramparts, and ditches that have been preserved to this day allow us to visualize the defensive system of the ancient settlement. During archaeological excavations, remains of pottery, household items, and fragments of wooden structures were discovered, confirming the existence of a developed urban structure.

Although excavations have not been carried out in full, even the existing findings suggest that this site played an important role in the history of medieval Lithuania. Perhaps future research will help uncover the secrets of this ancient settlement. At present, the hillfort remains a place that attracts both scholars and tourists interested in history.

Excursions with a Tour of the Hillfort

History and archaeology enthusiasts can book an excursion with a tour of the hillfort to see this mysterious place firsthand. Excursions across Belarus include visits to the hillfort, where visitors can explore ancient fortifications, imagine what the settlement looked like, and learn about the hypotheses related to the legendary Voruta.

Excursions are organized from Minsk, during which experienced guides provide insights into the possible connection between this site and the first Lithuanian prince, Mindaugas. Tourists can walk along the ancient hill, see the preserved elements of fortifications, and learn about the results of archaeological research.

The Iron Age Hillfort is a unique place where facts and legends intertwine, bringing centuries-old history to life. If you are interested in ancient history, then a tour from Minsk will be a great way to uncover the mysteries of the past.