Prague, December 17: Archaeologists have excavated parts of Prague's oldest ramparts, dating back to the turn of the 9th and 10th centuries, which verify Jewish globetrotter Ibrahim ibn Jaqub's description of Prague as "a town made of stone and lime."

The archaeologists uncovered the remnants of the wall at Malostranske namesti square in the cellar of the Academy of Performing Arts building, 5 metres underground. A thousand years ago, the walls were part of one of Prague's main entrance gates, through which the town was entered from the western and southern directions.

The fortification was made of wood and clay and might have been up to 6 metres high.

"Prague was a bustling trade center at the time. Strong fortification was important for the development and safety of trade," said archaeologist Jarmila Cihakova.

"Although remnants of such old ramparts were uncovered elsewhere in Prague already before, the latest find has significantly upgraded the knowledge of the then Prague fortification, and it is undoubtedly one of the most important findings of recent years," said Cihakova.

According to the daily Mlada fronta Dnes (MfD), the archeologists have thoroughly documented the unique fortification, but covered it with sand to secure its preservation.

Prague, including its ramparts, attracted Ibrahim ibn Jaqub, a trader and diplomat, envoy of the Cordoba khalif. In his report, ibn Jaqub depicts Prague with admiration as a beautiful and bustling "town of stone and lime."

In the early Middle Age, Prague had several thousands of inhabitants who mainly earned their living as producers of saddles, bridles, shields, ceramics and clothes.