Adelsö, Medieval archaeological site in Lake Mälaren, Sweden
Adelsö is an island in Lake Mälaren within Ekerö Municipality, defined by a diverse landscape of forests and farmland. Pine woodlands and rocky ridges alternate with open agricultural areas, while oak groves are scattered throughout the terrain.
The island became important during the Viking Age when Hovgården functioned as an administrative center. Its connection to the nearby settlement of Birka made it a significant hub in the regional power and trade network.
The name Adelsö refers to the nobles who inhabited and ruled the island during medieval times. Visitors today can observe burial sites and earthworks that reflect the social importance of those early residents.
A vehicular cable ferry from Sjöängen on the neighboring island of Munsö provides access to the island. Regular bus services operate across the area, allowing exploration without a personal vehicle.
Five large burial mounds known as Kungshögar stand north of the island church and suggest royal activities. These distinctive earthworks are rare examples of monumental burial structures from the High Middle Ages in the region.
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