The Slagstaristning is an archaeological site in Slagsta, Botkyrka kommun, discovered during road construction for Botkyrkaleden in 1971. It is the largest rock carving in Stockholm County and is a protected ancient monument. The site consists of 18 ships, 3 animal figures, 210 cup markings, 1 polished surface, 9 fragments, 5 grooves, and 2 human figures.
One of the human figures has characteristically shaped legs with strong calves, under which lies a shallow carved ship image. The rock carving was discovered by chance on September 13, 1971, when it was in the middle of the road construction. The rock was then completely overgrown and unknown.
Archaeological investigations were underway near the road construction, and one of the archaeologists, Rudolf Hansson, became curious about the rock. When he lifted a piece of moss, a ship image appeared. The road authorities changed the road route at the last minute, and the rock remained. It is believed that this place had a ritual-magical significance where people directed themselves towards a higher power, though what the place meant for people of the time is not completely clear.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nik Frost
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