rautakautta

Rautakautta, meaning "Iron Age" in Finnish, refers to the archaeological period in Finland characterized by the widespread use of iron for tools and weapons. This era is generally considered to have begun around 500 BCE and lasted until the arrival of the Swedish and Orthodox Christian missions in the 1100s CE, marking the beginning of the Middle Ages. The Iron Age in Finland is often divided into sub-periods, including the Pre-Roman Iron Age, the Roman Iron Age, and the Vendel and Viking periods, each showing distinct cultural influences and developments.

During the Iron Age, Finnish society transitioned from a predominantly Stone Age and Bronze Age culture to one that relied heavily on iron. This metal allowed for the creation of more effective agricultural tools, such as plows, which improved farming practices and supported a growing population. Iron was also crucial for weaponry, impacting warfare and social structures. Settlement patterns changed, with more permanent villages and fortified settlements, known as 'linnavuoret' (castle mountains), appearing in some regions.

Trade played an increasingly significant role during the Iron Age. Finns engaged in exchange networks that extended across the Baltic Sea, interacting with cultures in Scandinavia, mainland Europe, and even the Roman Empire. Archaeological finds, such as Roman coins and artifacts, attest to these extensive trade connections. Burial customs also evolved, with cremation becoming more common alongside inhumation, and elaborate grave goods providing insights into the social status and beliefs of the time. The Iron Age laid the groundwork for the later development of a more centralized Finnish society.