In a quaint corner of Norway, an ordinary family embarked on a treasure hunt of their own, only to stumble upon an extraordinary piece of history. The Aasvik family, residing on the serene island of Jomfruland off the country's southern coast, had a rather unique experience while searching for a lost gold earring in their backyard this month. Little did they know that their quest would lead them to a trove of Viking-era artifacts dating back over a millennium.
The Aasvik family's remarkable discovery unfolded as they dusted off a trusty metal detector to assist in the search for the missing earring. While their intentions were to find a single piece of jewelry, they unwittingly embarked on an archaeological adventure. Instead of the earring, their metal detector signaled the presence of something much older and more profound: Viking relics.
Among the unearthed treasures were a bowl-shaped buckle and another item believed to be linked to a ninth-century Viking burial. These artifacts, now in the hands of experts, have reignited fascination with the Vikings and their presence on Jomfruland. According to the Cultural Heritage of Vestfold and Telemark County Council, the family may have inadvertently discovered the remains of a woman's grave, carefully preserved beneath the roots of a large tree in their garden. Radiocarbon dating suggests that these items date back to around the year AD 800.
The two Viking-era artifacts discovered under a tree in the Aasvik family’s yard. Kulturarv i Vestfold og Telemark fylkeskommune
The Aasvik family acted responsibly upon their discovery, promptly contacting local authorities to report their findings. Their vigilance ensures that these precious historical artifacts will be properly preserved, studied, and shared with the world.
Prior to this serendipitous find, archaeologists had scant evidence of Viking settlements on Jomfruland, with their knowledge extending primarily to the Middle Ages. This newfound trove represents a groundbreaking discovery, as it is believed to be the first tangible evidence of a Viking-era presence on the island. It promises to shed light on the lives and customs of the Vikings, who inhabited this remote corner of the world more than a millennium ago.
The Aasvik family's story is not the only remarkable Viking discovery to unfold in Norway recently. On the southern island of Rennesøy, amateur archaeologist Erlend Bore made headlines with his metal detector. Initially mistaking his find for foil-wrapped chocolate coins, Bore uncovered nine pendants, three rings, and ten gold pearls, believed to be from around AD 500. Archaeologists have referred to this remarkable discovery as "the gold find of the century in Norway."
However, it's important to note that in Norway, the law strictly prohibits individuals from keeping artifacts dating before 1537 and coins that predate 1650, as they are considered state property. These regulations are in place to preserve the nation's historical heritage for the benefit of all.
The Aasvik family’s garden where the Viking-era artifacts were unearthed. Kulturarv i Vestfold og Telemark fylkeskommune
The Aasvik family's accidental discovery serves as a testament to the enduring allure of history, which often lies just beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered. Their find not only enriches our understanding of Viking history but also highlights the importance of responsible stewardship of our cultural heritage. As the artifacts are examined and preserved for future generations, we can only wonder what other hidden treasures may lie beneath the earth, waiting for their moment to be revealed.
