Study Unveils Secrets of Norway's Second Largest Man-Made Mound

Date: April 8, 2025
By: Mark Milligan

In an exciting development for archaeology, a recent study has shed light on Jellhaug, Norway’s second largest man-made mound, located near Halden. This ancient earthwork, also known as Jellhaugen, ranks among the most notable mounds in the Nordic region.

Mound Dimensions and Historical Context

Jellhaug features an oval shape, measuring about 85 by 70 meters at its base and reaching a maximum height of 10 meters. It is situated in proximity to the renowned Gjellestad ship burial site, an area rich in ancient history. Local folklore suggests that the mound served as the burial site of an ancient sea hero and claims of sightings of wills-o’-the-wisp—a type of atmospheric ghost—have long been associated with the area, adding a layer of mythical narrative to the mound's significance.

Historical Investigations

While Jellhaug was partially excavated in the 1960s, its study has often been hindered by poor documentation, outdated dating methods, and the striking absence of human remains at what many considered to be a burial site. This has led to ongoing speculation about the mound's purpose within its historical context.

New Research Techniques

In a new investigation led by the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research (NIKU), archaeologists employed advanced techniques, including ground-penetrating radar and test drilling, to gain fresh insights into the mound's construction and age. Initial estimates had placed the mound's construction between AD 350 and 990, but recent findings suggest it may have been built during the Migration Period (AD 400 – 550) or the Merovingian Period (AD 481–751).

Analysis of Core Samples

The research team collected 16 core samples from strategic locations around the mound. The analysis revealed a complex construction process that utilized layered local materials, indicating a carefully planned approach. Interestingly, the lack of discovered burials prompts a reevaluation of the mound's intended purpose. The study authors propose that “empty” mounds like Jellhaug may have served as sites for rituals, assembly, or perhaps as monuments to honor specific deities.

Ongoing Research and Implications

With ongoing analysis of the newly obtained data, researchers are hopeful to uncover further understandings of the mound’s formation and its cultural and historical implications for the region. This study not only revitalizes interest in Jellhaug but also raises intriguing questions regarding ancient practices and the significance of monumental constructions in Norway’s past.

This latest research offers the potential for a deeper appreciation of Norway's rich archaeological heritage, reflecting how local communities engaged with their cultural landscapes in ways that remain to be fully understood.

Conclusion

As investigations continue, Jellhaug stands as a testament to Norway's historical narrative, merging folklore, archaeology, and advanced technologies to unveil the stories of the past. The collaboration of modern scientific techniques with archaeological inquiry promises to enrich our understanding of such monumental structures, revealing the complexities of ancient societies in the Nordic region.

For additional information and updates regarding the ongoing research, readers can follow the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research (NIKU) and stay tuned for future publications.