Rock Reliefs in Tanum (Tanum Rock Carvings)
Rock Reliefs at Tanum is a complex of petroglyphs in the village of Tanum, Sweden.
General information
The rock carvings were found in 1972. Are Nielsen, a construction worker, discovered them just at the spot where he was about to lay a charge of dynamite. It is believed that the reliefs were made in the 1800-600s BC. They are located at a height of 25 meters above sea level. Along the 25 kilometer line of the former fjord, scientists have noted about 100 groups of stone relief images. The entire protected complex is divided into four districts: Fossum, Aspeberget, Vitluke, Litsleby.
.A rather large museum area in the Vitluke district is open to tourists. For easy viewing and walking in the park there are walking paths with signs and plaques. The rock with a large number of petroglyphs is located right next to the museum. It is on it that the most interesting plot images are concentrated – it is a couple in love, battle scenes, and a grieving woman. The latter is depicted in a closed dress, with a long braid gathered in a bundle on the back of her head. She is kneeling over the lying man, as if grieving for the dead.
.Archaeologists have counted 13 types of ornaments and figures here, these include ships, sledges, people, weapons, animals, and trees. Most often they are single images, but there are also several compositions. One composition consists of 130 figures placed close to each other. Boats carry passengers, people are busy cultivating the land. These drawings provide a unique insight into the daily life and beliefs of Bronze Age people.
.
Unfortunately, these unique images are in danger of disappearing due to the effects of frost, heat, sea salt and air pollution. The rocks are beginning to crack, and all attempts to preserve or somehow protect the drawings more often than not result in their damage. In addition, the planned construction of a new highway will cause irreparable damage to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
.
