Non-destructive research of a double circular enclosure at Uherský Ostroh (Uherské Hradiště District, Czech Republic)

Abstract

The article informs about the discovery of the remains of a circular structure called a rondel, in this case featuring a double rondel in ‘Padělky’ field near Uherský Ostroh (SE Moravia, Czech Republic) and offers the results of non-destructive methods of research performed there in 2016–2020. The double circular complex was discovered during an analysis of satellite images of the Earth’s surface and subsequently verified by geophysical prospection. The resulting magnetogram revealed two ditches interrupted by five presumptive entrances at the site, along with dozens of anomalies that can be interpreted as potential archaeological features. Multiple-phase prehistoric occupation at the site was later proved by surface surveys. Occupation of the earlier phase of the Linear Pottery culture and the Lengyel culture has been documented. The age of the rondel itself remains an open question for the time being, however; it can only be clarified by a regular excavation. The present study discusses the existing possibilities of dating from various perspectives. Besides a probable dating the rondel to the Lengyel culture, a later, Early Eneolithic or Early Bronze Age, dating cannot be ruled out either.