Ancient Arrowshaft Discovered on Erikfjellet in Bardu
A hiker traversing Erikfjellet in Bardu, Troms, discovered a fully intact, 1,500-year-old arrowshaft dating back to the Iron Age in September. Measuring 59 centimeters long and completely rounded with a nock for a bowstring, the artifact was uncovered as mountain snowdrifts receded. Ingrid Sommerseth, instituttleiar ved Noregs arktiske universitetsmuseum in Tromsø, described the piece as a unique and exquisite find that might easily be mistaken for a simple piece of wood by an untrained eye.
Researchers at UiT have examined the artifact closely, noting that the wooden shaft lacks a traditional arrowhead or any traces of tar, pitch, or bindings typically used to secure iron points, and the nock appears completely unused. Sommerseth told that the hunter likely dropped the shaft from a quiver while bending down. This discovery marks the northernmost find of its kind within Norway’s borders, surpassing a 2013 find located just across the Swedish border near Skjomen in Narvik, which falls under Swedish research jurisdiction.
Connections to Early Sami Reindeer Hunting
University researchers link the arrowshaft to early Sami hunters who engaged in extensive wild reindeer hunting across the mountain plateaus. Sommerseth explained that this hunting formed a core component of a broader trade economy connecting inland and coastal communities. Mountain commodities traveled south to Europe via coastal trading networks, while iron and other high-value goods moved back north, binding inland hunting directly to the Iron Age coastal economy.
Upcoming Field Investigations in Troms
Because the original hiker also reported seeing reindeer antlers nearby, archaeologists suspect additional historical artifacts may emerge as alpine ice and snow continue to melt. In the meantime, museum officials urge hikers, grouse hunters, and reindeer herders in Troms to keep a close watch on the ground near snowpatches during their mountain travels, noting that outdoor enthusiasts frequently make these rare discoveries.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Bardu Arrowshaft
How old is the discovered arrowshaft?
Researchers date the artifact to the Iron Age, estimating it to be approximately 1,500 years old.
Where exactly was the artifact found?
A hiker found the arrowshaft high up on Erikfjellet in Bardu, located in the Troms region of Norway.
What physical characteristics does the arrowshaft have?
The wooden shaft measures 59 centimeters in length, is entirely rounded, features a carved groove for a bowstring, and shows no physical evidence of ever having a metal tip attached.