Ancient archeological trail at Smines

This archeological trail contains a number of historic finds dating from prehistoric through to Viking times (before 1000 AD). Archaelogical evidence suggests that Smines has been inhabitated continously for the last 6000 years. The trail is 1,8 km long, located approx. 4 km before the ferry harbour at Lund. The trail is signposted in English, Norwegian and German. Sign by the road for parking.

Out here on the coast, the ice only released its clutches after the last Ice Age (about 10 000 years ago), making it possible to live from hunting and fishing. Gradually, as the ice receded and new dry land rose from the sea, the way of life changed. The early inhabitants left the bare rock and, over time, began to farm as well as hunting and fishing. They developed bigger and better boats, allowing them to trade widely along the rest of coast, possibly even with foreign cultures and peoples.

The location of the settlement was of great strategic advantage when it came to getting food and afforded a good view over the fjord and the sea in case of unwelcome guests.

Further up the fjord, at the farm, lie the remains of a local fort dating from the time of the great migrations (500 – 800 AD) with  corduroy (log) road leading to it from the sea. Besides forming the last line of defence for the people of the farm, the fort also served as a vantage point from which to keep lookout over the road.

This whole area of Norway shows signs of ancient habitation. Here at Smines it appears that cremation was the dominant burial practice. At Lund, 3 km to the north, a skeleton  buried in a sitting position was found a few years ago and sarcophagi have been found further up the fjord. Many ancient artefacts have also been found here at the farm and at other farms in the area.