Were you aware that Sweden serves as a gateway to history spanning millennia? This is particularly true in Tanum, which boasts one of the most extensive sets of prehistoric rock carvings in all of Northern Europe.
Situated approximately 90 minutes north of Göteborg, this intriguing location was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It provides an exclusive look into Nordic artwork from the Bronze Age (circa 1500-500 BC). These remarkable inscriptions were carefully etched onto the granitic surface, illustrating various aspects of daily life such as hunting, agriculture, spiritual ceremonies, and mythical beings.
Begin your exploration at the Vitlycke Museum for orientation through a guided tour that enhances comprehension of these puzzling historical artifacts. From here, venture out to examine the four accessible rock-art locations: Vitlycke, Aspeberget, Litsleby, and Fossum. Each spot reveals distinct examples of these age-old relics within their original settings.
At Vitlycke, observe depictions of vessels and dynamic human forms; meanwhile, Aspeberget impresses with intricate bull imagery alongside sun-related designs. In Litsleby, discover what appears to be the biggest anthropomorphic depiction brandishing a lance—possibly symbolizing a deity associated with warfare. Lastly, head over to Fossum where panoramas recount tales derived from antiquated folklore embedded directly into stone surfaces. Quite captivating indeed!
Vitlycke Museum
Vitlycke 2
457 93 Tanumshede
+46 10 441 43 10
www.vitlyckemuseum.se
