12.2 Excavation techniques for Viking settlements
10 min read•august 21, 2024
Viking settlements offer a window into Norse culture and daily life. Excavation techniques have evolved, incorporating advanced technologies to uncover intricate details. These methods provide crucial insights into trade networks, social structures, and technological advancements of the Viking Age.
Proper excavation preserves contextual information and recovers delicate organic materials. Systematic approaches enable comparative analyses between different Viking settlements. Tailored techniques help reconstruct settlement layouts and architectural features, painting a vivid picture of Viking life.
Overview of Viking settlements
- Viking settlements encompass a diverse range of archaeological sites spanning Scandinavia, British Isles, and North Atlantic islands
- Excavation techniques for Viking settlements have evolved significantly, incorporating advanced technologies and methodologies to uncover intricate details of Norse culture and daily life
- Understanding Viking settlements through archaeology provides crucial insights into trade networks, social structures, and technological advancements of the Viking Age
Types of Viking settlements
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- Urban centers (Birka, Hedeby) characterized by dense populations, craft production areas, and international trade connections
- Rural farmsteads featuring longhouses, outbuildings, and evidence of agricultural activities
- Coastal trading posts (Kaupang) serving as hubs for maritime commerce and cultural exchange
- Temporary camps and overwintering sites used during Viking expeditions and explorations
Importance of excavation techniques
- Proper excavation techniques preserve contextual information crucial for interpreting Viking material culture
- Advanced methods allow for the recovery of delicate organic materials often found in Viking sites
- Systematic approaches enable comparative analyses between different Viking settlements across regions
- Excavation techniques tailored to Viking sites help reconstruct settlement layouts and architectural features
Site selection and survey
- Site selection for Viking settlement excavations involves interdisciplinary collaboration between archaeologists, historians, and geologists
- Survey techniques combine historical records, landscape analysis, and cutting-edge technologies to identify potential Viking sites
- Preliminary surveys help determine the extent, preservation state, and research potential of Viking settlements before full-scale excavation
Remote sensing methods
- (Light Detection and Ranging) scans reveal subtle topographic features indicative of buried Viking structures
- Aerial photography identifies crop marks and soil discolorations suggesting the presence of Viking-age features
- detects magnetic anomalies caused by buried hearths, metalworking areas, and other Viking-related activities
- (GPR) creates subsurface images of potential Viking structures without disturbing the site
Ground-based prospection techniques
- Systematic field walking surveys collect surface artifacts to identify areas of Viking activity
- analyzes soil composition for elevated phosphate levels indicating human occupation
- detect subsurface features based on variations in soil moisture content
- map subtle surface undulations that may indicate buried Viking structures
Test pitting strategies
- Small-scale excavations (1x1m or 2x2m) strategically placed to assess site stratigraphy and artifact density
- Transect sampling involves digging test pits along predetermined lines to understand site extent and variation
- Judgmental targets areas of high potential based on surface finds or geophysical survey results
- Systematic random sampling ensures unbiased coverage of the site for preliminary assessment
Excavation planning
- Excavation planning for Viking settlements requires careful consideration of research objectives, site conditions, and available resources
- Collaborative approaches involving international teams of experts are common in large-scale Viking settlement excavations
- Long-term planning is essential due to the complex nature of Viking sites and the need for extensive post-excavation analysis
Research design development
- Formulation of clear research questions addressing specific aspects of Viking settlement archaeology
- Integration of multidisciplinary approaches (archaeology, history, environmental science) in research design
- Development of sampling strategies for artifacts, ecofacts, and environmental data
- Incorporation of non-invasive techniques to minimize site disturbance while maximizing data collection
Permit acquisition process
- Consultation with local heritage authorities to obtain necessary excavation permits
- Compliance with national and international regulations governing archaeological excavations
- Negotiation of land access agreements with property owners or local communities
- Preparation of detailed project proposals outlining excavation methods, timelines, and expected outcomes
Resource allocation
- Budgeting for specialized equipment required for Viking site excavation (water pumps, freeze-drying facilities)
- Recruitment of skilled excavators experienced in Norse archaeology and artifact handling
- Arrangement of laboratory facilities for on-site processing and preliminary analysis of finds
- Allocation of funds for post-excavation analysis, conservation, and long-term curation of artifacts
Stratigraphic excavation methods
- is fundamental to understanding the chronology and development of Viking settlements
- Careful removal and documentation of soil layers reveal the sequence of occupation and activities at the site
- Adaptation of excavation methods to suit the specific conditions of Viking sites, such as waterlogged environments
Single context recording
- Excavation and documentation of each stratigraphic unit (context) individually
- Detailed recording of soil characteristics, inclusions, and relationships between contexts
- Assignment of unique context numbers to facilitate spatial and temporal analysis
- Creation of Harris to visualize stratigraphic relationships within Viking settlements
Open area excavation
- Large-scale exposure of Viking settlement areas to reveal spatial relationships between structures
- Allows for the identification of activity areas, pathways, and settlement layout
- Facilitates the understanding of phasing and development of Viking settlements over time
- Requires careful planning to manage soil removal and maintain site integrity
Quadrant method vs baulk method
- divides features into quarters, excavating opposite quadrants to reveal profiles
- leaves standing sections of unexcavated soil to preserve stratigraphic information
- Quadrant method often preferred for Viking pit features and sunken-featured buildings
- Baulk method useful for maintaining spatial control in large open area excavations of Viking settlements
Artifact recovery techniques
- Artifact recovery in Viking settlements requires a balance between thoroughness and efficiency
- Specialized techniques are employed to recover fragile organic materials often preserved in Viking contexts
- Systematic recovery methods ensure representative sampling of Viking material culture
Dry sieving vs wet sieving
- involves passing excavated soil through mesh screens to recover small artifacts
- uses water to wash soil through sieves, improving recovery of small and delicate items
- Dry sieving commonly used for general soil processing in Viking site excavations
- Wet sieving essential for recovery of small bone fragments, plant remains, and metalworking debris in Viking contexts
Flotation for organic remains
- Flotation separates light organic materials (seeds, charcoal) from heavier soil particles
- Crucial for recovering botanical evidence of Viking diet, agriculture, and environmental conditions
- Helps identify imported plant species, providing evidence of Viking trade networks
- Allows for the recovery of small fish bones and scales, important for understanding Viking fishing practices
Metal detection protocols
- Systematic metal detecting surveys conducted before and during excavation to locate Viking metalwork
- Careful recording of metal detector finds to preserve spatial information
- Use of discriminating detectors to focus on non-ferrous metals associated with Viking artifacts
- Integration of metal detection data with other excavation records to interpret activity areas within settlements
Documentation and recording
- Comprehensive documentation is critical for preserving information about Viking settlements
- Digital recording methods are increasingly used alongside traditional paper-based systems
- Emphasis on creating detailed, accessible archives for future research and reinterpretation
Site grid systems
- Establishment of a site-wide coordinate system for precise spatial recording
- Use of total stations or DGPS for accurate mapping of features and finds
- Implementation of local and national grid systems to facilitate integration with broader datasets
- Creation of detailed site plans showing the spatial relationships between Viking structures and features
Context sheets and matrices
- Standardized recording forms () used to document each stratigraphic unit
- Inclusion of detailed descriptions, measurements, and interpretations on context sheets
- Construction of Harris Matrices to visualize stratigraphic relationships within Viking settlements
- Digital database systems for efficient management and analysis of context information
Photogrammetry and 3D modeling
- Use of overlapping photographs to create accurate 3D models of Viking structures and artifacts
- Application of structure-from-motion (SfM) techniques to generate detailed site models
- Integration of 3D models with GIS data for comprehensive site analysis and visualization
- Creation of virtual reconstructions of Viking buildings based on archaeological evidence
Environmental sampling
- Environmental sampling provides crucial data on Viking settlement ecology and resource exploitation
- Systematic sampling strategies ensure representative coverage of different site areas and contexts
- Integration of environmental data with artifact analysis offers a holistic view of Viking lifeways
Soil sampling techniques
- Collection of bulk soil samples from key contexts for multi-proxy analysis
- Use of monolith tins to extract continuous soil profiles for micromorphological study
- Implementation of grid-based sampling to map spatial variations in soil chemistry across Viking settlements
- Specialized sampling protocols for waterlogged deposits common in Viking coastal and riverine sites
Pollen and macrofossil analysis
- Collection of sediment cores from nearby lakes or bogs for off-site
- On-site sampling of archaeological contexts for pollen and macrofossil remains
- Analysis of pollen assemblages to reconstruct local vegetation and land-use patterns during Viking occupation
- Identification of macrofossil remains (seeds, plant parts) to understand Viking diet and agriculture
Radiocarbon dating methods
- Selection of short-lived organic materials (seeds, twigs) for precise dating of Viking contexts
- Use of Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) for dating small samples from key stratigraphic units
- Application of Bayesian modeling to refine chronologies of Viking settlement phases
- Integration of radiocarbon dates with artifact typologies and historical records for comprehensive dating
Preservation of structures
- of Viking structures is prioritized when possible to maintain site integrity
- Specialized techniques are employed to conserve organic materials common in Viking settlements
- Balancing the needs of preservation with research access and public presentation
In situ preservation techniques
- Reburial of excavated features using carefully selected backfill materials
- Installation of geotextile membranes to protect buried Viking structures from environmental damage
- Implementation of water table management systems for waterlogged Viking sites
- Use of sacrificial layers to protect original Viking surfaces in areas open for public viewing
Removal of fragile features
- Careful planning and documentation before removing delicate Viking structures
- Use of block-lifting techniques for complex features like hearths or floor surfaces
- Application of consolidants to stabilize fragile materials before removal
- Creation of molds or 3D scans to preserve spatial information of removed features
Conservation of wooden remains
- Immediate treatment of waterlogged wood to prevent drying and cellular collapse
- Use of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) impregnation for long-term stabilization of large timber structures
- Freeze-drying techniques for smaller wooden artifacts from Viking contexts
- Monitoring and environmental control of conserved wooden remains in storage and display
Post-excavation analysis
- Post-excavation analysis is crucial for interpreting the data collected during Viking settlement excavations
- Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for comprehensive analysis of diverse material types
- Integration of specialist reports to create holistic interpretations of Viking settlement life
Artifact cataloging and storage
- Development of standardized typologies for Viking artifact classification
- Creation of detailed catalogs including measurements, material composition, and contextual information
- Implementation of appropriate storage solutions for different material types (metals, organics, ceramics)
- Use of database management systems to facilitate research access and long-term curation
Data interpretation methods
- Application of statistical analyses to identify patterns in artifact distribution and assemblage composition
- Use of GIS to analyze spatial relationships between features and finds within Viking settlements
- Integration of scientific analyses (isotope studies, residue analysis) with traditional archaeological methods
- Comparative analysis with other Viking sites to identify regional patterns and variations
Publication and dissemination
- Preparation of comprehensive site reports detailing all aspects of the excavation and analysis
- Publication of specialist studies in peer-reviewed journals to share significant findings
- Development of online databases and digital archives to increase data accessibility
- Creation of popular publications and media content to engage the public with Viking archaeology
Ethical considerations
- Ethical practices in Viking archaeology emphasize respect for cultural heritage and stakeholder interests
- Balancing research objectives with conservation needs and community values
- Adherence to professional codes of ethics and international conventions on cultural heritage
Stakeholder engagement
- Consultation with local communities and descendant populations throughout the excavation process
- Incorporation of traditional knowledge and oral histories in interpreting Viking settlement sites
- Development of collaborative research partnerships with Scandinavian institutions and archaeologists
- Public outreach programs to share excavation results and involve communities in heritage preservation
Cultural heritage protection
- Implementation of site security measures to prevent looting and vandalism of Viking settlements
- Development of management plans for long-term protection of excavated and unexcavated sites
- Advocacy for stronger legal protections for Viking archaeological sites at national and international levels
- Balancing research access with the need to preserve sites for future generations
Repatriation of artifacts
- Adherence to international agreements and ethical guidelines regarding the movement of cultural property
- Consideration of repatriation requests for significant Viking artifacts to countries of origin
- Development of loan agreements to facilitate international study and exhibition of Viking material culture
- Digital repatriation initiatives to increase access to Viking collections for source communities
Challenges in Viking site excavation
- Viking site excavations present unique challenges due to their complex stratigraphy and diverse environments
- Adapting excavation strategies to address specific issues encountered in different types of Viking settlements
- Developing innovative solutions to overcome limitations in preserving and interpreting Viking material culture
Waterlogged site management
- Implementation of dewatering systems to allow excavation of submerged Viking structures
- Use of cofferdam techniques for coastal Viking sites to create dry working environments
- Application of anaerobic excavation methods to preserve organic materials in waterlogged contexts
- Development of specialized recording techniques for underwater or inter-tidal Viking sites
Urban vs rural site differences
- Adaptation of excavation strategies to deal with deep, complex urban Viking stratigraphy
- Management of time and budget constraints often associated with urban Viking rescue excavations
- Implementation of extensive survey techniques to identify dispersed rural Viking settlements
- Development of sampling strategies to characterize large rural Viking landscapes efficiently
Dealing with later disturbances
- Careful stratigraphic analysis to distinguish Viking-age deposits from later intrusions
- Use of scientific dating methods to resolve complex site formation processes
- Implementation of targeted excavation strategies to investigate undisturbed Viking contexts
- Integration of historical records and maps to understand post-Viking impacts on settlement sites
Key Terms to Review (41)
3D Modeling: 3D modeling is the process of creating a digital representation of a three-dimensional object or scene using specialized software. This technique allows archaeologists to visualize and analyze artifacts, structures, and landscapes in a more interactive and realistic manner, enhancing the understanding of past environments and human activities.
Analysis report: An analysis report is a detailed document that presents the findings and interpretations derived from data collected during an archaeological excavation. This report outlines the methods used, the context of the site, and the conclusions drawn from the evidence, providing a comprehensive understanding of the significance of the archaeological work conducted.
Baulk method: The baulk method is an archaeological excavation technique that involves leaving sections, or baulks, of undisturbed soil between excavation units. This technique allows archaeologists to maintain a vertical profile of the site, revealing stratigraphy and the relationship between different layers without compromising the context of artifacts and features. By carefully examining these baulks, researchers can gain insights into the chronological sequence of occupation and activities within a Viking settlement.
Brooches: Brooches are decorative items of jewelry designed to be attached to garments, often serving both functional and ornamental purposes. In the Viking Age, they were not just personal adornments but also indicators of social status, craftsmanship, and artistic expression. The style and material of brooches varied, reflecting the wearer's identity and social hierarchy, making them significant in understanding cultural practices and technological advancements in metalworking and jewelry making.
Cataloging: Cataloging is the systematic process of organizing and recording items in a collection, such as artifacts from archaeological sites. In archaeology, it involves documenting the details of each find, including its location, context, and characteristics, which is crucial for understanding the significance of the artifacts within their historical setting. Proper cataloging ensures that data can be easily retrieved and analyzed, facilitating research and preserving the integrity of the archaeological record.
Context Sheets: Context sheets are detailed records used in archaeology to document the precise conditions of artifacts and features at a site during excavation. They serve as vital tools for understanding the spatial and temporal relationships of the finds, providing context that helps in interpreting the significance of the artifacts within their archaeological setting.
Contextual analysis: Contextual analysis is a research method that examines the historical, cultural, and environmental factors surrounding artifacts or texts to gain a deeper understanding of their significance. This approach emphasizes how context shapes meaning and interpretation, allowing scholars to piece together the social, political, and economic influences at play during a particular time. By applying contextual analysis to various subjects, it becomes easier to uncover insights that might be overlooked when looking at artifacts or texts in isolation.
Dry sieving: Dry sieving is a technique used in archaeology to separate and sort soil and sediment particles based on size without the use of water. This method is particularly important in archaeological excavations as it helps recover small artifacts, ecofacts, and other materials that may be missed in less meticulous processing. In the context of excavation, dry sieving ensures a thorough examination of soil samples, enhancing the understanding of the site’s past activities.
Electrical resistivity measurements: Electrical resistivity measurements involve assessing the resistance of soil and subsurface materials to electrical currents, which helps identify variations in soil composition and moisture content. This technique is particularly useful in archaeology for locating buried structures or artifacts, as different materials exhibit distinct resistivity values. By analyzing these values, archaeologists can gain insights into the layout of Viking settlements and the potential presence of features such as walls, ditches, or post holes without invasive digging.
Field Notes: Field notes are detailed records made by archaeologists during excavation, capturing observations, measurements, and reflections on the context of findings. These notes serve as essential documentation that aids in analyzing and interpreting artifacts and features discovered at excavation sites, ensuring that critical information is preserved for future reference and research.
Flotation for organic remains: Flotation for organic remains is a specialized archaeological technique used to recover tiny, often fragile, plant and animal materials from soil samples. This method relies on the principle of density separation, where lighter organic materials, like seeds and bones, float to the surface when mixed with water, allowing archaeologists to collect these valuable remains that provide insights into past diets and environmental conditions.
Geochemical Sampling: Geochemical sampling is a method used to analyze the chemical composition of soil, sediments, or artifacts in order to gather information about past human activities and environmental conditions. In the context of excavation techniques, this approach helps archaeologists identify areas of interest within Viking settlements by detecting patterns in elemental or isotopic distributions that may indicate the presence of artifacts or features associated with human occupation.
Ground-penetrating radar: Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is a non-invasive geophysical method that uses radar pulses to image the subsurface. By sending high-frequency radio waves into the ground and measuring the reflected signals, it allows archaeologists to detect and map buried structures, artifacts, and features without the need for excavation. This technology is particularly valuable in understanding fortifications and defensive structures as well as in planning excavation techniques for Viking settlements.
Hall: In Norse architecture, a hall refers to a large communal structure typically used for gatherings, feasting, and ceremonies. These halls served as the center of social life for Viking communities, showcasing the significance of communal spaces in their culture and daily activities. The architectural design often featured a long rectangular shape, high ceilings, and a central hearth, making it an essential part of Viking settlements.
In situ preservation: In situ preservation refers to the practice of keeping artifacts, features, and other archaeological materials in their original place of discovery. This approach is crucial in archaeology as it maintains the context and relationships of the items, which can provide valuable information about past human activities and behaviors, particularly during excavation of Viking settlements.
Lidar: Lidar, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution maps of landscapes and features. This technology has become increasingly important in archaeology, especially for uncovering and documenting Viking settlements, as it can penetrate vegetation and provide detailed topographical data that traditional survey methods might miss.
Longhouse: A longhouse is a traditional dwelling used by Norse communities during the Viking Age, characterized by its elongated shape and communal living space. These structures were significant in the context of agricultural practices, social organization, and regional architecture, often serving as the heart of Norse farmsteads and settlements, reflecting the lifestyle and values of their inhabitants.
Macrofossil analysis: Macrofossil analysis is the study of larger fossilized remains, such as seeds, wood, and animal bones, that provide insight into past environments and human activities. This analysis is crucial for understanding the diet, agriculture, and ecological conditions during the Viking Age, as well as the interactions between humans and their environment in settlement contexts.
Magnetometry: Magnetometry is a geophysical survey method that measures variations in the Earth's magnetic field to detect archaeological features and artifacts. This technique is particularly effective in identifying buried structures or objects that contain ferromagnetic materials, which can be crucial for locating Viking settlements and understanding their spatial organization. By analyzing magnetic anomalies, archaeologists can gather valuable information without invasive excavation methods.
Matrices: In archaeology, matrices refer to the contextual layers of soil and artifacts found during excavation. They are crucial for understanding the relationships between different layers and the chronological order of human activity in a site, particularly in Viking settlements where stratigraphy helps reveal patterns of habitation and usage over time.
Metal detection protocols: Metal detection protocols are systematic procedures used in archaeological investigations to locate and document metal artifacts within excavation sites. These protocols often involve pre-excavation surveys, proper equipment usage, and specific methodologies to ensure that metal objects are identified accurately and preserved for analysis. Implementing these protocols is crucial for understanding the material culture of past societies, including Viking settlements, where metal items played a significant role in trade, warfare, and daily life.
Microtopographic surveys: Microtopographic surveys are detailed assessments of small-scale variations in the topography of a landscape, focusing on features such as depressions, mounds, and subtle changes in elevation. These surveys are crucial for understanding how past human activities, like those of Viking settlements, interacted with the natural environment and shaped the archaeological record. By revealing patterns in the landscape, microtopographic surveys can inform excavation strategies and help identify areas of potential significance.
Open Area Excavation: Open area excavation is an archaeological technique that involves removing soil and other materials from a large, flat area to expose and record features, artifacts, and ecofacts in their spatial context. This method allows for the comprehensive examination of a site, enabling archaeologists to understand the layout and relationships of various elements within Viking settlements.
Photogrammetry: Photogrammetry is the science of making measurements from photographs, especially for recovering the exact positions of surface points. This technique is vital in archaeological contexts, as it allows for the detailed documentation and analysis of excavation sites, including Viking settlements, without disturbing the physical context of the artifacts and structures.
Photographic recording: Photographic recording refers to the process of capturing images of archaeological sites, artifacts, and excavation contexts through photography. This technique serves as a critical documentation tool that aids in preserving visual evidence of the site before, during, and after excavation activities. The images created through photographic recording can help researchers analyze and interpret data, create detailed records, and share findings with the wider archaeological community.
Pollen Analysis: Pollen analysis is the study of pollen grains and spores to reconstruct past environments and understand historical land use. This method allows researchers to gather information about vegetation, climate, and human activities over time, providing insights into how populations interacted with their surroundings during various periods, including Norse colonization and the excavation of Viking settlements.
Provenience: Provenience refers to the specific location and context from which an archaeological artifact or feature is recovered. It includes information about the horizontal and vertical position within a site, which is crucial for understanding the artifact's association with other items, layers, and features. This concept is fundamental in archaeology, particularly when examining settlements like those from the Viking Age, as it helps to reconstruct past human behavior and social organization.
Quadrant Method: The quadrant method is an excavation technique that involves dividing a site into smaller, manageable sections or quadrants to systematically uncover and analyze archaeological artifacts and features. This approach helps archaeologists to maintain precise control over the excavation process, ensuring that all layers of soil are documented and artifacts are recorded in context, which is crucial for understanding the historical significance of Viking settlements.
Radiocarbon dating: Radiocarbon dating is a scientific method used to determine the age of an artifact or organic material by measuring the amount of carbon-14 remaining in the sample. This technique is crucial for establishing timelines in archaeology, especially for periods such as the Scandinavian Iron Age and the Viking Age, as it allows researchers to date remains and artifacts, shedding light on historical events, societal changes, and technological advancements.
Screening mesh: Screening mesh is a fine sieve used in archaeological excavation to filter soil and separate artifacts, ecofacts, and other materials from the sediment. This tool is essential for recovering small finds that might otherwise be overlooked during excavation, ensuring a more thorough analysis of the site. It plays a crucial role in understanding the material culture of past societies, particularly in Viking settlements, by providing insight into their daily lives and activities.
Single context recording: Single context recording is an archaeological methodology that involves documenting each stratigraphic context or layer as a separate unit during excavation. This technique allows for detailed and precise recording of artifacts, features, and ecofacts associated with each specific context, ensuring that the relationships between finds are maintained and understood. It emphasizes meticulous documentation to preserve the integrity of the archaeological record.
Site conservation: Site conservation refers to the methods and practices used to protect and maintain archaeological sites, ensuring their integrity and preserving their historical value. In the context of excavating Viking settlements, site conservation plays a critical role in balancing the need for research with the preservation of the site for future study and public education. This involves careful planning and execution of excavation techniques to minimize damage while maximizing data recovery.
Site grid systems: Site grid systems are a method used in archaeology to create a structured framework for excavating and recording data at an archaeological site. This system divides the site into a grid of squares or units, allowing archaeologists to systematically excavate and document artifacts, features, and other cultural materials while maintaining precise spatial relationships. The use of site grid systems is essential for analyzing the spatial distribution of finds and helps in interpreting the site’s history and layout.
Soil sampling techniques: Soil sampling techniques refer to the various methods used to collect soil samples from archaeological sites for analysis and interpretation. These techniques are critical in understanding the subsurface conditions of Viking settlements, revealing important information about the past, such as land use, agriculture, and environmental changes. By examining soil composition and stratigraphy, archaeologists can piece together the story of human activity and settlement patterns in these historic locations.
Spade: A spade is a tool with a flat, typically rectangular blade and a long handle, primarily used for digging and moving soil or other materials. In archaeology, particularly during excavations of Viking settlements, spades are essential for carefully uncovering artifacts, features, and stratigraphy without causing damage. Their design allows archaeologists to make precise cuts in the soil, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the excavation site.
Spearheads: Spearheads are pointed metal tips used on spears, which were essential weapons during the Viking Age, indicating both practical and symbolic significance in warfare and hunting. These artifacts provide crucial insights into technological advancements and cultural practices of the Vikings, reflecting their craftsmanship and the broader context of their military strategies and societal structures.
Stratigraphic Excavation: Stratigraphic excavation is an archaeological technique that involves the careful and systematic removal of soil layers to understand the chronological sequence of human activity at a site. This method helps archaeologists analyze the different strata, or layers of soil, to reveal how and when structures and artifacts were used, providing insights into the cultural and historical context of the site.
Test pitting: Test pitting is an archaeological excavation technique that involves creating small, strategically placed pits to sample the subsurface layers of a site. This method helps archaeologists identify the presence and distribution of artifacts and features without conducting a full excavation, making it particularly useful in surveying areas to assess their archaeological potential. It allows for preliminary data collection, guiding further investigations while minimizing disturbance to the site.
Trowel: A trowel is a small hand tool with a pointed, scoop-shaped blade used for digging, smoothing, or applying materials. In archaeology, particularly during excavations of Viking settlements, it serves as a crucial instrument for carefully removing soil and revealing artifacts without causing damage. This tool allows archaeologists to meticulously uncover layers of history and stratigraphy, ensuring the integrity of the archaeological context.
Typological Analysis: Typological analysis is a method used in archaeology to classify artifacts based on their characteristics, forms, and styles. This approach helps in understanding the chronological, cultural, and functional aspects of material culture, allowing researchers to identify patterns and relationships among different artifacts or sites.
Wet sieving: Wet sieving is a method used in archaeology to separate artifacts and ecofacts from soil or sediment by using water to wash the material through a mesh screen. This technique is particularly useful for recovering smaller items, such as bones, seeds, and tiny artifacts that may be lost during dry sieving. By employing water, it reduces dust and helps in preserving delicate materials that might be damaged through other excavation methods.