Definition:
Mounds are a type of monumental architecture built primarily of earth, although they do occasionally have stone or wood foundations. These structures may or may not contain human burials.
The term is most frequently used to describe the Mississippian mounds of the central and eastern North American continent, but the tradition of raising earthworks may be found in one form or another in prehistoric cultures around the world.
Sources and Further Information
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Examples: Alligator mound, Cahokia
