Askeberga stone ship, Stone ship archaeological site near Tidan, Sweden.
Askeberga stone ship is an oval arrangement of 24 massive stones positioned along a formation 55 meters long and 18 meters wide. Each stone weighs roughly 25 tons and forms a prehistoric structure typical of Bronze Age and Iron Age burial practices in Scandinavia.
The formation dates between 1000 BCE and 1000 CE, spanning the Bronze Age and Iron Age periods of Scandinavia. Prehistoric populations built this structure to express their burial and memorial traditions.
The formation is locally known as Rane's Stones and connects to Norse mythology, particularly through associations with Odin. Visitors can sense how this place held ceremonial or spiritual importance for ancient peoples who lived in the region.
The site sits along road 200 between Skövde and Töreboda, making it easily accessible for visitors traveling through the region. Guided tours are available through the Askebergagruppen organization, which provides educational information about the formation.
All 24 stones remain in their original positions and have never been disturbed by excavation. This is a rare state of preservation, as no burial remains have been found beneath the structure, raising questions about its exact purpose.
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