Circular rampart of Burg

The Ringwall von Burg is an Early Middle Ages defensive earthwork near Celle in Lower Saxony. It sits in what was once an inaccessible marsh by the River Fuhse. The site dates to the 10th century and was probably built as a refuge against Viking or Slav attacks. Today it is one of the most important Early Middle Age monuments in the area. The circular embankment rises three metres high and measures between 70 and 85 metres across. Archaeologists have confirmed the rampart was constructed entirely from peat turves called plaggen. Carl Schuchhardt’s 1906 excavation proved there were never wooden reinforcements inside the embankment. Ernst Sprockhoff’s dig between 1935 and 1936 uncovered post sockets for three buildings inside the site. Finds included pottery shards, a rusted knife and horseshoes, all dating the site to the 10th century. Earlier Stone Age flints and fireplaces show the sand dune had been settled long before. Visitors climb a flight of stone steps to reach the top of the rampart. The dry V-shaped ditch and the original entrance gap on the eastern side are still visible. An information tablet explains the site’s history. The novel The Warwolf by Hermann Löns helped bring the rampart wider fame in the early 20th century. The surrounding flat valley and the river’s changed course add to the atmosphere of this well-preserved relic.