Archaeologists give the name rondel or roundel enclosure to a type of circular prehistoric earthworks enclosure found in Europe. Since first being discovered in the nineteenth century, three distinct forms have been identified. One type consists of two semicircular ditches forming a circle and separated by causeways at opposing entrances, another is of multiple circuits of ditches interrupted with entrances at cardinal or perhaps astronomically-oriented points and also having an internal single or double timber palisade whilst a third type consists of a single ring ditch. They normally have a diameter of around 80m although much larger examples are known. Aerial archaeology has recorded many possible rondel enclosures across Central Europe, especially in Bohemia although few have been subject to excavation. A pair of roundels are known at Bylany and all seem to be associated with settlement sites. Dating from pottery found in the ditches connected with the Stroke-ornamented ware culture of the Neolithic although some may be slightly later.
