Ancient runes have fascinated for centuries, mysterious symbols carved into stone, wood, or bone. They open a window into vanished civilizations, rich and complex cultures whose writing still largely eludes us. Archaeologists patiently decipher these inscriptions, seeking to understand the messages left by peoples such as the Vikings or the Celts.
Each discovery of a rune, each fragment unearthed, brings its share of questions and revelations. By exploring these artifacts, researchers gradually reconstruct the beliefs, rituals, and ways of life of our ancestors.
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The origins and evolution of ancient runes
The first artifacts: the Vimosen comb and the Jelling stones
The Vimosen comb, found in 1865 and housed at the National Museum of Denmark, represents one of the oldest runic inscriptions. This comb, discovered in a bog, sheds light on the daily uses and beliefs of the Nordic peoples.
The Jelling stones, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, provide another significant testimony. Erected by King Gorm the Old and his son Harald Bluetooth, these stones celebrate Denmark’s conversion to Christianity and the consolidation of the kingdom.
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The Svingerud stone: a recent discovery
In 2021, near Lake Tyrifjorden, the Svingerud stone was uncovered. Analyzed by Kristel Zilmer, this stone comes from human remains in a grave. Zilmer interpreted its inscriptions, revealing new aspects of the funerary rites of the time. The stone will be displayed at the Museum of Cultural History in Oslo, offering the public a unique opportunity to discover these runes.
Key figures in research
Researchers like Jakob Bonde and Lisbeth Imer play a key role in the study of runes. Bonde discovered the Bourzeix runes, while Imer highlights the rarity of ancient runic inscriptions. Their work enhances our understanding of the evolution of these writings and their cultural impact.
- Vimosen comb: found in 1865, housed at the National Museum of Denmark
- Jelling stones: inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Svingerud stone: discovered near Lake Tyrifjorden, analyzed by Kristel Zilmer
Major archaeological discoveries and their impact on our understanding
The Odense museum and the oldest runic inscription in Denmark
The Odense museum made a resounding announcement in November 2021: the discovery of the oldest runic inscription in Denmark. This archaeological treasure was found in a necropolis east of Odense. The small knife, decorated with a Roman-inspired ornamental motif, reveals new aspects of the culture and exchanges of the time.
The runes and the researchers
Jakob Bonde, one of the researchers involved in this discovery, identified five runes on the small knife. He stated, “This discovery is absolutely unique and of national importance.” Lisbeth Imer, another prominent figure in the field, emphasized, “It is rare to find such ancient runes.” Their joint work sheds light on our understanding of the early forms of runic writing.
The role of museums and institutions
The Museum of Cultural History in Oslo, in collaboration with the University of Oslo, continues to play a central role. Kristel Zilmer from the University of Oslo has interpreted the inscriptions on the recently discovered Svingerud stone. This stone will be displayed at the Museum of Cultural History in Oslo, offering the public a unique opportunity to contemplate these invaluable remains.
- Odense museum: oldest runic inscription in Denmark
- Small knife: discovered in November 2021
- Necropolis east of Odense: site of the discovery