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Apuolė Hillfort

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Apuolė Hillfort in the Skuodas district, located at the confluence of the Luoba and Brukis rivers, is one of Lithuania's archaeological landmarks, distinguished by its history and impressive fortifications. Historical sources mention Apuolė from as early as 853 AD, when it was attacked by Swedish King Olaf and his army, but the people of Apuolė avoided conquest through a large ransom. Until the 13th century, this hillfort served as a defensive structure, and later it became a burial site. Today, it is listed in the Lithuanian records book and is an important cultural tourism site that testifies to the ancient Lithuanian past.

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Mounds
Skuodas Information Center

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Apuolė Hillfort, situated at the confluence of the Luoba and Brukis rivers in Skuodas district, is one of the oldest archaeological monuments in Lithuania. This hillfort stands out with an impressive 75-meter-long rampart system, surrounded by remnants of ancient fortifications. The hillfort has been documented since 853 AD in Rimbert's chronicle, which describes the attack by Swedish King Olaf against the inhabitants of Apuolė. The conflict lasted eight days until the Apuolė residents offered a ransom, thus avoiding conquest. In the Middle Ages, this hillfort was an important defensive point, with

fortifications being further reinforced: ramparts were widened to 38 meters, and wooden defenses were constructed on them. Until the 13th century, Apuolė Hillfort maintained its defensive role, and by the 15th-16th centuries, it became a burial site. The hillfort, recorded in the Lithuanian records book, continues to attract visitors today who are eager to explore its historical and cultural heritage. Archaeologists and scholars, including Swedish researchers, have confirmed that this was one of the oldest defensive structures in Lithuania, symbolizing Lithuanian resilience and cultural heritage.

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