Ancient Artifacts Emerge from Melting Ice in Norway
Uncovering 5,000 Years of History
As the Langfonne ice patch in Norway’s Jotunheimen Mountains continues to melt due to climate change, it is revealing a treasure trove of ancient artifacts that shed light on human activity over the past 5,000 years.
A Rich Tapestry of Reindeer Hunting
A team of researchers from the Universities of Cambridge, Oslo, and Bergen has discovered 68 arrow shafts, some with arrowheads attached, dating from the Stone Age to the medieval era. These arrows, made from materials such as bone, slate, iron, and mussel shell, provide evidence of reindeer hunting in the area for millennia. Additionally, hundreds of reindeer antlers and bones have been found on the ice, further supporting the theory that this was a prime hunting spot.
Radiocarbon Dating Unravels the Past
Radiocarbon dating has played a crucial role in determining the age of the artifacts. The oldest items, around 6,000 years old, were found near the bottom of the ice patch, while the most recent, dating back to around 1300 A.D., were found closer to the surface. This chronological distribution of artifacts provides a unique glimpse into how human activity changed as the ice patch grew or shrunk over time.
Varying Patterns of Reindeer Hunting
The researchers have observed varying patterns of reindeer hunting over the centuries. During some periods, many reindeer bones but few arrows were found, suggesting that the animals were likely killed by predators such as wolverines. In contrast, from 600 to 1300 A.D., there was a significant increase in arrow finds, while reindeer material was scarce. This period coincides with the Viking Age, when human hunters may have harvested large numbers of reindeer for their fur and antlers, which were valuable commodities.
Connections to Distant Lands
The discovery of combs made from reindeer antlers in eighth-century Denmark suggests that there was long-distance trade in reindeer-related products in Northern Europe, starting earlier than previously believed. This finding supports the idea that even remote locations were connected to the economies and societies of other parts of Europe.
A Window into the Past
The melting ice patch at Langfonne has provided a unique opportunity to study ancient human behavior and the impact of climate change on historical artifacts. The artifacts themselves, along with the data obtained from radiocarbon dating, offer valuable insights into reindeer hunting practices, trade networks, and the changing landscape of the region over the past 5,000 years.
Preserving the Past for the Future
As the ice continues to melt, researchers are racing against time to document and preserve the artifacts before they are lost forever. The melting ice patch serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our cultural heritage and the importance of taking action to mitigate climate change. By studying these ancient artifacts, we can gain a deeper understanding of our past and ensure that future generations can appreciate the rich history that lies beneath the ice.