Skogsdungar

Skogsdungar, also known as forest mounds or forest barrows, are prehistoric burial mounds found in the forests of Scandinavia, particularly in Sweden. These mounds are typically circular or oval in shape and vary in size, ranging from a few meters to over 20 meters in diameter. They are often surrounded by a ring of stones, known as a cistvaen, which served as a protective barrier.

Skogsdungar are believed to have been constructed during the Bronze Age, around 1500-500 BCE. They were used for the burial of individuals, often with their belongings, such as weapons, jewelry, and pottery. The mounds are usually located in dense forests, which may have provided a sense of security and privacy for the deceased.

The construction of skogsdungar involved the excavation of a pit, the placement of the deceased and their belongings inside, and then the covering of the pit with earth and stones. The mounds were often decorated with stone settings or other markers to indicate their purpose.

Skogsdungar are significant archaeological sites, providing valuable insights into the burial practices and social structures of the Bronze Age Scandinavian population. They are also of cultural importance, representing a connection to the past and the ancestors. Today, many skogsdungar are protected as cultural heritage sites, and efforts are made to preserve and study them for future generations.