Feldmarken

Feldmarken, also known as field marks, are a type of archaeological feature found in various parts of Europe, particularly in the Low Countries, Germany, and Denmark. They consist of a series of concentric circles or arcs of earthen mounds, often with a central pit or depression. The purpose of these structures is not fully understood, but they are believed to have been used for various ceremonial or ritual purposes.

Feldmarken are typically found in open fields and are often associated with other archaeological features such as burial mounds, stone circles, and standing stones. They are usually made of earth and are often surrounded by a ditch or moat. The size of the structures can vary, with some being as small as a few meters in diameter and others as large as several hundred meters.

The exact date of the construction of Feldmarken is also uncertain, but they are believed to have been built during the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods, around 4000 to 1000 BCE. The structures are often found in groups, and it is believed that they may have been used for communal gatherings or rituals.

The origin and purpose of Feldmarken remain a subject of debate among archaeologists. Some theories suggest that they may have been used for astronomical observations, while others propose that they were used for ceremonial burials or as part of a larger ritual complex. Despite the uncertainty surrounding their purpose, Feldmarken are an important archaeological feature that provides insight into the beliefs and practices of prehistoric societies.