A rare Viking Age artifact has melted from its icy-mountain tomb after 1,200 years. Discovered at 2,000 meters above sea level, this timeworn horse bridle whispers of ancient high-altitude traders and travelers, as well as of the animals that did the heavy work.
The horse bridle was discovered during an expedition to a smaller snow patch south of Lendbreen in Norway. (Espen Finstad / Secrets of The Ice / Innlandet County Municipality)
The “Exhilarating” Story of the Horse Bridle and Glacial Archaeology
Glacial archaeology is an exhilarating pursuit, uncovering ancient artifacts from ice-bound sites amidst vast high mountain terrain. The search begins with analyzing maps, aerial photos and satellite imagery to identify non-moving ice patches.
By integrating computer programs and local knowledge from mountain hikers, reindeer shepherds and wildlife researchers, archaeologists chart potential ancient travel routes across these icy landscapes , blending technology and exploration in their quest for ice-entombed artifacts.
Galdhøpiggen, the highest mountain in both Norway and Northern Europe, has presented an intriguing opportunity for archaeological exploration in its challenging alpine environment. Now, on a small snowy patch to the south of Lendbreen, near Galdhøpiggen, archaeologists have discovered a metal horse bridle and parts from a leather strap, which serve collectively as evidence of horse travel during the Viking Age .
Archaeologists are particularly excited by the…
