One of the Biggest Stone Graves From the Bronze Age Can Be Found in Sweden
By December 30, 2016
The King’s Grave (Kungagraven), located in the southeastern portion of the Swedish province of Skåne, is what remains of an unusually grand Nordic Bronze Age double burial which roughly 3000 years old. With a diameter of 75 meters, it is the largest known burial mound in Sweden.
The site was used as a quarry for construction materials until 1748 when two farmers quarrying in the area uncovered a 3.25 meters (11 ft) stone tomb, constructed with ten slabs of stone measuring 0.65 meters (2.1 ft.) wide and 1.2 meters (3.9 ft.).
The farmers started to dig into it thinking that they may find treasure underground. Rumor said that the two farmers have actually stolen the treasure. They were arrested by the authorities and interrogated for it. However, the two men denied having found anything, and as no evidence could be provided against them, they were released.
The entrance to the tomb.
Dated to roughly 1600 BC
The site measures 75 meters in diameter and it is the largest mound of its type in Sweden.
The stones of the grave facing the grave of Kivik.
Stones within the cairn of Kivik.
Rock carving.
The scenes are thought to represent Bronze Age mortuary rituals, religious symbols, and grave goods.
One of the ten slabs of stone shows a horse drawn chariot with two four-spoked wheels.
Whether the tomb had been robbed of valuables is uncertain.
The mound was reconstructed and opened a passage to allow visitors to tour the once hidden burial chamber.
H/T TheVintageNews
