The first building-phase of the fortification at Horodca Mică

During four years time (2006-2009) regular investigations were undertaken in the area covered by the defensive line at Horodca Mică. We would like to emphasize that our field observations suggest the existence of several stages of fortification of the same space and what is visible today in the form of a hill of impressive dimensions, preceded by an adjacent ditch, are only ruins of the final phase of this defensive system. Since the stratigraphic picture is too complex to be present in its entire form (even preliminarily), we decided to focus on some particular aspects which can be introduced to an academic audience with sufficient confidence. Therefore we only focused on the first stage of fortification of the promontory of Horodca Mică. To prove out point we present, primarily, a number of objective observations registered on the ground. Secondly, we explain our vision about how the defensive system was built in the first phase. Finally, we will analyze the techniques and materials used in constructions and their existing analogies, the available chronological markers, and the fate the fortification had. In conclusion, we affirm that a complex defensive system was arranged in this space. The construction was based on a wooden case extended over 4.3 meters, and was filled up with soil that was excavated from its front. This formed a ditch measuring 7.8 meters at the opening and of 2.7 meters at its maximum depth. It should be noted that the ditch was at 3.7 meters distance from the limit of construction, forming in this way the traditional berm for such defensive systems. Similar edifices could be reported in the eastern Carpathian area and neighboring areas during the whole Latène period.