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How were traditional Naga villages designed for protection?
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Traditional Naga villages in Nagaland were strategically designed to prioritize defense and security. These settlements were typically built on the most prominent points along the ridges of the hills, providing a natural vantage point over the surrounding terrain.1
To further enhance their protection, these villages were historically stockaded and featured massive wooden gates. Access to the village was restricted by narrow, sunken paths, which served as a defensive measure to control entry and protect the inhabitants. This layout, combined with their elevated positioning, allowed the Naga people to effectively safeguard their communities within the rugged Naga Hills region.12