Why Were Ancient Cities Built on Hills?
The practice of building ancient cities on hills wasn’t a random occurrence but rather a strategic choice driven by a confluence of practical and defensive considerations. The primary reasons can be categorized into three key areas: defense, natural resources, and environmental factors. These factors often overlapped and contributed to the selection of elevated locations for early urban settlements. In short, building on hills offered a significant advantage in a world where survival depended on strategic positioning and resource accessibility.
The Crucial Element of Defense
Natural Fortifications
One of the most compelling reasons for building on hills was the inherent defensive advantage. Hills provided a natural barrier against attackers. The steep slopes made it difficult for opposing forces to mount a coordinated assault, effectively slowing them down and making them vulnerable. This natural fortification meant that fewer resources needed to be invested in building artificial defenses like walls and moats, at least initially. The higher elevation also provided excellent vantage points. Residents could easily spot approaching enemies from a distance, allowing them ample time to prepare for an attack. This advance warning was crucial in a time of frequent conflicts and raiding parties.
A Shield from Invasion
The protective aspect of a hill location wasn’t just limited to physical attacks. In a broader sense, hills provided a buffer from the chaos of the world. This security allowed cities to grow and prosper with less fear of sudden incursions, fostering stability that contributed to their development. Cities located near mountains also benefited from this protection, with the mountains serving as a natural line of defense, affording them time to mature without constant threat of annihilation.
Strategic Access to Natural Resources
Water and Fertility
While hills might not initially seem like prime spots for resource access, their proximity to certain advantages was key. Hills often provided reliable springs and groundwater sources, crucial for sustaining a population. Additionally, nearby rivers could provide access to drinking water, irrigation for agriculture, and a way to transport goods. This combination of proximity to rivers at the base of hills and access to water at higher elevations made it advantageous to locate near them. The land adjacent to rivers was also typically more fertile, facilitating the growth of essential crops.
Building Materials
Hills weren’t just advantageous for access to water. Often, hills contained stone deposits that were essential for construction. Stone provided durable materials for buildings, fortifications, and monuments. This local access reduced the need for long-distance transport of heavy materials, making building projects easier and less costly. The presence of stone within the hills allowed for solid foundations upon which the ancient cities could grow.
Environmental Factors and Livability
Avoiding Flooding
Hills offered a refuge from another common threat – flooding. River valleys, while fertile, were also prone to periodic inundations. By building on higher ground, ancient settlements were less susceptible to flood damage, protecting homes and infrastructure. This was especially important in regions with unpredictable rainfall or river patterns, allowing people to establish a more secure base.
Breezes and Air Circulation
Another less obvious but significant benefit was the enhanced air circulation found on hills. Elevated positions often experienced stronger breezes that helped clear out stagnant air and pollutants. This improved air quality contributed to a healthier environment, especially before the advent of modern sanitation systems. This natural ventilation reduced the likelihood of disease outbreaks and created a more habitable environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why were cities built on top of each other?
Ancient cities often built on top of their predecessors because it was more efficient than hauling away debris. Each layer of a city creates a tell or mound. This can be a result of natural occurrences like river flooding depositing silt, or winds carrying sand, making it easier to build on the existing layer, rather than clearing the area.
2. Are there cities that are built on top of cities?
Yes, there are. Numerous old cities are constructed on multiple layers of previous cities. A modern example is Seattle’s Pioneer Square, where parts of the old city still exist beneath modern buildings.
3. Why are many ancient cities found near rivers?
Rivers were incredibly important to early civilizations, providing a constant source of drinking water, facilitating agricultural irrigation, and acting as an easy way to transport goods.
4. What is the oldest known city on Earth?
Currently, the title of oldest known city belongs to Çatalhöyük, located in modern-day Turkey. Founded around 9,000 years ago, this settlement is a groundbreaking example of early urban development.
5. What city is known as the “City of Seven Hills”?
While many cities lay claim to being the “City of Seven Hills”, Rome is the most famous. Its historical foundation is inextricably linked to its seven prominent hills.
6. Are there other cities besides Rome that are built on hills?
Absolutely. Numerous cities globally are situated on hills. Some examples include Albany, New York, Asunción, Paraguay, Cincinnati, Ohio, Lausanne (Switzerland), Città Alta in Bergamo (Italy), and many others.
7. Why are so many cities built in valleys?
Valleys provided easy access to water, often through rivers, and offered fertile land ideal for agriculture. Moreover, rivers were essential for transportation and trade in ancient times.
8. What is a “city upon a hill,” in a figurative sense?
The term, drawn from the Bible, often references the idea of a beacon of hope or an ideal society. In the context of U.S. politics, it can relate to America’s role as a model for other nations.
9. How does building on a hill affect water access and sanitation?
Building on hills can make water access and sanitation more complex. Typically, water has to be carried up from a lower source. However, many hills are built near river valleys where access to water is easier. Sanitation can also be a challenge due to the difficulties of implementing drainage systems on slopes.
10. How does elevation help a city for defense purposes?
Higher elevations allow city residents to easily spot approaching armies, giving them sufficient time to prepare for attacks. This natural vantage point drastically improves a city’s defense capabilities.
11. Is it possible to build a city on a steep hill?
Yes. Many cities are built on steep hills, often utilizing terraces and other techniques to create habitable and functional spaces. Cities in Switzerland and Nepal are examples of successful urban development in challenging, hilly terrains.
12. Why were ancient cities often so small?
The ecology of the Mediterranean, where many early cities arose, was often fragile. This lack of a surplus of resources restricted the scale of city development.
13. Why did towns develop about 10 miles apart?
Before modern transportation, a person could reasonably travel up to 5 miles to a nearby town for work and resources, and return in one day. This created a sphere of influence around towns, placing them about 10-15 miles apart.
14. Why do things get buried over time?
Various factors can cause things to become buried. Flooding deposits layers of silt, volcanic eruptions can cover entire areas, landslides bury sites, and even earthworms contribute to the accumulation of soil over time.
15. Why are some artifacts buried so deeply?
Many artifacts are buried deeply because surface objects often disappear or decay due to erosion and reuse. Only the buried artifacts are likely to survive over long periods.
By carefully considering the dual advantages of defense and access to essential resources, our ancestors strategically located cities on hills, creating fortified communities with an enduring legacy. These ancient sites serve as a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of humanity in navigating the challenges of the early world.