Image for Burghal Hidage

Burghal Hidage

The Burghal Hidage is a historical record from Anglo-Saxon England, dating to around the 9th century. It details a list of fortified towns (burghs) and estimates of their defensive walls' costs and sizes. This document was used by the authorities to organize and fund the construction and maintenance of these defenses, which were crucial for protecting against Viking invasions. Essentially, it functions as a strategic military and administrative catalog, providing insight into the Anglo-Saxons' efforts to strengthen regional security and manage resources effectively during a period of external threats.