Fjäle Fields

Katthammarsvik, Sweden

Fjäle fields have long history. The Fjäle farm was established c. 100 AD, and remains of two large iron age houses are still visible on the site. After 7th century AD the large iron age houses were replaced with smaller ones not far away from the old houses. During the 12th century a smaller farm was separated from the main farm, and set up in the northern end of the peoperty. The farms were burnt down during 14th century, possibly during Denmark's attack to Gotland, and were never rebuilt. The area was excavated in the 1970's and 1980's, and building remains were marked to the ground where they can sill be seen.

The farm's well is still in good condition, and the water is still drinkable. Some hundred meters south from the farm remains is the graveyard for the farm's pre-christian residents.

Reconstruction of a 14th century farmhouse and its animal shelter have been built close to the place where the medieval farmhouse stood. A folklore legend of Fjälebysen (Fjäle wraith) says that the owner of the farm still wanders around the area.

References:

Comments

Your name



User Reviews

Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.