Archaeology - The Early Middle Ages | Het Huis van de Aarde

Archaeology - The Early Middle Ages

Understandably, interest in the history of early Middle Ages Wieringen was temporarily overshadowed by the discoveries of the Viking treasures. The Viking period was, however, short-lived. Altogether, it didn't last more than 50 years, from the first landing, to the official retreat at the end of the 9th century. Finds in Wieringen dating to between 500 and 1000 A.D. are quite numerous, but nowhere near as spectacular as the Viking treasures. This can be seen in the following pictures, which show objects from the collection at "het Huis van de Aarde".

Early Middle Ages Badorf pottery. Most of the pottery was very simple: round-bellied stockpots (such as the pot from the first Viking treasure), and beakers. Plates were not used. Instead, a wooden plank or flatbread was sufficient. In addition to earthenware, cooking was done in iron pots. However, if iron pots are found, not much remains other than rust.

Two disc fibulas. Fibulas are pins that were used to hold dresses and capes closed. The example on the right comes from Wieringen, the better preserved one on the left was found in Friesland. Both are from the 9th century.

A heelbone that was used as a rope tightener. This carved heelbone comes from a cow, and was found near Hippolytushoef. It was used in the 9th/10th century to tighten ropes on ships. Animal bones and horns were frequently used to make tools. They were easy to work with and widely available. Unfortunately, after many centuries in the ground, usually not much remains. Only in exceptional ground conditions are such objects preserved.

Last updated: 15 08 2000