In a similar way to the western end, the eastern entrance was modified and enlarged over time.
Excavations here in the 1930s by the famous archaeologist Sir Mortimer Wheeler revealed the complex development of the ramparts.
The rebuilding of the entrance resulted in the creation of narrow, complex passageways, overlooked by stone platforms, on which guards could have monitored, and if necessary, defended the entrance.
Over 20,000 slingstones, small rounded pebbles from Chesil Beach on the south coast, have been found at this eastern entrance. They were stored in large pits ready to be thrown or slung at attackers.
The area immediately outside the gates was the location of a blacksmith’s workshop, and within the entrance a large cemetery was established.
Disclaimer
The text and pictures on this page are derived from the 'Heritage Unlocked' series of guidebooks published in 2004. We intend to review, update and enhance the content in the near future as part of the Portico project, whose objective is to provide information on the history, significance, research background and sources for all English Heritage properties.
