The lost landscape of Borgring

A recently identified Danish Viking Age ring fortress, Borgring, reveals significant insights into the strategic planning and resource investment of its builders. Geoarchaeological investigations demonstrate that the site was purposefully expanded to fit a pre-defined size, indicating a deliberate approach to positioning and construction. Contrary to expectations, navigability along a nearby stream was not a factor in its location or function, as access by larger vessels was impossible. This challenges previous assumptions about the functional interpretation of Danish Viking Age ring fortresses, suggesting that their strategic importance lay elsewhere.

Jessen, C., Henriksen, P. S., Hald, M. M., Sindbæk, S. M., & Ulriksen, J. (2021). The lost landscape of Borgring. Danish Journal of Archaeology, 10. https://doi.org/10.7146/dja.v10i0.121917