Granavollen stone, Norse runestone at Granavollen, Norway.
The Granavollen stone stands behind St. Nicholas Church with runic inscriptions carved directly into its surface in straight bands. The text layout shows the careful craftsmanship and writing traditions of that time period.
The stone was raised around 1050 during the transition between Norse paganism and Christianity, when both belief systems existed side by side. It was commissioned by Aun Ryggja's sons as a memorial to their brother Aufi.
The inscription combines Christian prayers with traditional runic script, showing how the old Norse religion and Christianity coexisted in people's minds during this period. You can see this blend reflected in every line carved into the stone.
The stone is located behind St. Nicholas Church in Gran Municipality and is accessible on foot. Informational panels at the site explain the inscription and its meaning for understanding that era.
The inscription names specific family members and includes a prayer for Aufi's soul, offering a rare glimpse into personal relationships of that time. Such intimate details are uncommon on runestones and make this one a special historical record.
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