Peruse the ruins of a 2,000-year-old settlement and ponder the purpose of an ancient and mysterious underground channel.
Chysauster Ancient Village is a set of stone houses and outlying buildings dating back to the late Iron Age. Experts believe that the Dumnonii tribe occupied this site for a few centuries from around 100 B.C. Hike up to the top of the hill for excellent views of these fascinating courtyard houses and the Cornish countryside.
Discover the original layouts of the village houses. The courtyard houses are laid out among a village street and each structure has a diameter of around 100 feet (30 meters). Each home would have been centered on an open courtyard, with several thatched rooms leading off from this. Although only stone walls remain in place, the remains still provide a glimpse into life many years ago.
Bring along a camera the views from this hill stretch as far as the coast. The extensive views afforded by the elevated position would have helped the settlers spot any potential invaders, while the ample ground was useful for farming.
Find the entrance to an underground structure, marked by two large capstones, on the southern side of the site near House 7. The function of the underground passage, known as a fogou, remains a mystery, although it is possible the passages were used for storage or shelter. Meditate further on the possible purposes of fogous at the nearby sites of Carn Euny and Halliggye where other examples of these structures can be seen.
Hike through the picturesque countryside past fields of bluebells, gorse and orchids. Bring a pair of binoculars for bird-watching or to look for rabbits, foxes and shrews, which can be seen scuttling through the bushes.
Purchase snacks and refreshments from the small shop halfway up the hill, between the parking lot and the main village site.
Chysauster Ancient Village is in the Penwith district of Cornwall. Drive north from Penzance for just over 4 miles (6 kilometers) and reach the ancient site in around 15 minutes. Leave your car at one of the free parking spaces at the bottom of the hill and make the half-mile walk up to the site. The site is usually closed during winter and there is a fee to enter.
