Oppida and Fortifications

Oppida were at such a high level in terms of their size and structure that they are considered the first cities in our territory. The Celts built them between 150–50 BC at strategic, naturally well-protected locations. The only oppidum in Eastern Bohemia is located in nearby Hradiště near České Lhotice. It lies halfway between the oppida of Bohemia and Moravia. It is therefore assumed that it was established as a safe station for trade caravans and also for the extraction of mineral resources (iron and gold) in the surrounding area.