Research has long since established that the Bronze Age was by no means lacking in raids between hostile villages and armed conflicts. The remains of burnt-out settlements, specially constructed weapon caches, or the discovery of entire battlefields – such as the one in the Tollense Valley in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania – speak for themselves. People had to be on their guard – and armed. Especially when they were carrying valuable items or tending their herds as shepherds. The village settlements were protected by palisades. In addition, warriors guarded the inhabitants and protected them from threatening raids.