The mound of Silju
Explore in – one of Northern Europe’s largest Iron Age burial mounds and a symbol of power.
About
Siljuhaugen is a large, artificially built burial mound, likely dating from the Early Iron Age. It sits atop a natural gravel plateau, overlooking an adjacent Iron Age burial ground, and is considered one of the largest mounds in Northern Europe.
Siljuhaugen as a Symbol of Power
Siljuhaugen clearly served as a symbol of power. The surrounding burial field confirms its high status in the region. Many archaeologists believe the mound may have represented the authority of a local warrior chieftain, possibly during the Viking Age.
The Origin of the Name Siljan
The names and may derive from the Latin loanword Salix (willow). This suggests the site may have been a place of cultic activity during the Roman Iron Age, with possible roots extending back to the Celtic Iron Age. The name may also reference a willow-related fertility cult, likely associated with women offering gifts.
Contact
post@siljan.kommune.no
Location
3749 Siljan
Practical information
- Burial mounds
- Sites worth seeing
- Natural sights
Nearby events
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"En Showgirls bekjennelse" med Guri Schanke – 12. november på Quality Hotel™ Skjærgården
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Krabberødstrand 14, 3960 Stathelle
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Barnas Jul med Erik & Kalle - 29.desember på Quality Hotel™ Skjærgården
Stathelleveien 35, 3970 Langesund
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