Archaeological Border Complex of Hedeby and the Danevirke
Archaeological Border Complex of Hedeby and Danevirke: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists
Introduction
Welcome to the fascinating world of the Archaeological Border Complex of Hedeby (Haithabu) and Danevirke! This guide aims to provide you with an enriching experience as you delve into the rich history, culture, and archaeology of these significant sites in Germany.
Location
Hedeby (Haithabu)
Hedeby, originally known as Haithabu, is located in the Schleswig-Flensburg district of northern Germany, near the border with Denmark. It was an essential trading town during the Viking Age and a significant cultural hub from the 9th to the early 12th centuries.
Danevirke
Danevirke is located in Schleswig-Holstein, around 30 km south of Hedeby. It is an ancient earthwork fortification believed to have been built by the Angles, Goths, or Danes during the Migration Period, around the 5th century AD.
History
Hedeby (Haithabu)
The town of Hedeby was founded around 730 AD and became a significant trading center due to its strategic location on the border between the Jutes and the Slavs. It was an essential stopover for merchants traveling along the trade routes connecting the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. The town flourished during the Viking Age, becoming a crucial political and religious center, with ties extending as far as Byzantium.
Danevirke
Danevirke was likely built to protect the German tribes from invasions by the Slavs and other enemy tribes during the Migration Period. The original Danevirke was probably wooden, but the current brick-and-mortar remains date back to around 810 AD, during Charlemagne’s reign. Over the centuries, the Danevirke has been rebuilt, reconstructed, or repaired multiple times, reflecting the changing political landscape of the region.
Key Attractions
Hedeby (Haithabu)
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Hedeby Open-Air Museum: This museum offers a unique glimpse into Viking Age life with reconstructed buildings, including a church, longhouses, workshops, and a trading hall. Visitors can learn about various crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and metalworking, while exploring the site.
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St. Maria Church: Originally built in the 10th century, this Romanesque church is one of the oldest structures in Hedeby. The current building dates back to the 13th century, although it was significantly rebuilt in the 15th and 16th centuries.
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Viking Graves: A collection of over 200 Viking Age graves, including some containing rich burial treasures, can be found at Hedeby. These graves offer valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of the Viking settlers who once inhabited this area.
Danevirke
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Danevirke Museum: Located in the village of Ulsfelde near the Danevirke, this museum provides an overview of the site’s history, archaeology, and significance. Visitors can also explore a reconstructed Viking Age longhouse and learn about daily life during that period.
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Danevirke Earthwork: The earthwork itself is the main attraction at Danevirke. You can walk along the rampart, admire the ditches, and gain an appreciation for the massive construction effort required to build such a fortification in ancient times.
Practical Information
Opening Hours & Tickets
Both sites have varying opening hours depending on the season. It is recommended to check their official websites for updated information:
Getting There
By Car: Both Hedeby and Danevirke are easily accessible by car via the A7 motorway.
By Public Transportation: Buses and trains connect both sites with nearby towns and cities, such as Flensburg, Schleswig, and Kiel.
Conclusion
The Archaeological Border Complex of Hedeby and Danevirke offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Germany during the Viking Age and beyond. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates historical sites, these two destinations are not to be missed!
Enjoy your journey through time, and let the stories of Hedeby and Danevirke enrich your understanding of this remarkable period in human history.