Mysterious Gold Foils Discovered In Norway; Have References To 476 AD Viking Era

by Tooba Shaikh
Mysterious Gold Foils Discovered In Norway; Have References To 476 AD Viking Era

Every so often, an interesting archaeological discovery is uncovered and threatens to change what we know about our history and reveals secrets that have previously haunted experts. One such discovery was recently made in Norway. Recently, during the excavation of a pagan temple, scientists discovered ancient gold foils in Norway’s Hov. These foils can prove critical in discovering previously unknown information about an ancient Scandinavian society. Here is what you need to know about this enthralling discovery.

Mysterious Gold Foils Discovered In Norway

This particular discovery is not the first of its kind. So far, a total of 35 such foils have been found at around 10 different sites in Norway. But, as per an archaeologist at Oslo’s Museum of Cultural History, Ingunn Marit Rostad, more than 3,000 similar pieces have been found across Scandinavia.

It is of note that these foils have only been found in Scandinavia and not anywhere else in the world. They were placed within post holes and some were concealed underneath the temple’s walls. This placement suggests they were intentionally positioned there.

One conclusion that experts are drawing from it is that these old foils might have been an offering to the temple. The foil had a width of 1 centimetre and was quite detailed.

Also Read: Israel Archaeologists Discovered 5,500-Year-Old Gate; Tagged As The Oldest Structure Ever Found

Contain Referenced To 476 AD Viking Era

According to an article recently published by WION, the detailing on the gold foils contained references to the Viking era of 476 and 750 AD. However, despite the best guesses of scientists, their actual purpose remains unknown.

The foils have many figures adorned with jewellery and other items like weapons and cups. The robes that they are wearing are associated with royalty which makes the foils even more intriguing. Rostad suggests that the depictions might be of deities from Norse mythology.

Also Read: Archaeologists Discover 4000-YO Polychrome Wall & 3000-YO Tomb In Peru; Why Is It Significant?

Do you find such discoveries as fascinating as we do? Let us know in the comments below!

Cover Image Credits: @archaeologyEAA/x (Formerly, Twitter)

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