A hill is a landform that is higher than the surrounding terrain and that is smaller than a mountain. Hill is a highland of much lower elevation than a mountain. Normally it is not as steep as a mountain. The surface of a hill is much more stable than that of a dune.

Hills are formed a few ways. They are formed by the same type of tectonic activity that forms mountains. Hills also may be formed by a buildup of rock debris or sand deposited by glaciers and wind. Humans also make hills by digging soil up and dumping it in a giant pile. Volcanoes are also another way that hills are formed.

Hills occur on every continent, in a variety of environments.

Many settlements were originally built on hills, either to avoid floods, or for defense (since they offer a good view of the surrounding land and require would-be attackers to fight uphill), or to avoid densely forested areas.

For example, Ancient Rome was built on seven hills, protecting it from invaders. The seven hills are Aventino, Campidoglio, Celio, Esquilino, Palatino, Quirinale, and Viminale.

Many parts of the world are famous for their rolling hills.

Tuscany is a region in central Italy with an area of about 23,000 square kilometres (8,900 square miles). It is known for its landscapes, history, artistic legacy, and its influence on high culture. Hills make up nearly two-thirds (66.5%) of the region’s total area.

The most famous hills in the United States are of the Black Hills of South Dakota and Wyoming. Many people also consider these hills to be mountains. Mount Rushmore is carved in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

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