Ancient sword could be Denmark's oldest iron artifact ever discovered

In Denmark, a significant archaeological discovery was made when a metal detectorist uncovered a bent Bronze Age sword in a bog near Veksø, which is located northwest of Copenhagen. The artifacts, including the sword and various other bronze items, date back approximately 2,500 years to the late Bronze Age. This region was known for ritual practices, and the found sword is thought to be part of such a sacrifice, likely indicating that even though this practice had waned, remnants of it still existed during that period. The discovery highlights the cultural practices of ancient societies in northern Europe. Among the artifacts recovered were two small bronze axes, several large bronze ankle rings, and a possible needle fragment. A neck ring was also found a short distance from the sword, recognized as the second of its kind ever found in Denmark. The neck ring is believed to have been imported from the Baltic coast of Poland, showcasing early trade connections and interactions in ancient Europe. These finds provide insights into the lifestyle, craftsmanship, and belief systems of the time. The bronze sword itself, which features iron rivets in its handle, is particularly notable as it may represent the earliest evidence of iron artifact usage in Denmark. The presence of iron indicates a transition period from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age, culturally and technologically. The sword's design and construction suggest it was not made locally but instead crafted in regions dominated by the Hallstatt culture, a prevalent culture in southern Europe during the Bronze Age, which was significantly influenced by early Celtic traditions. Archaeologist Emil Winther Struve noted the sword as a physical manifestation of the transition between ages, indicating a shift in weapon design that favored heavier and more durable swords for combat purposes. This innovation aligns with the warrior ideal promoted by the Hallstatt culture, reflecting a society that valued warfare and conquest. Such discoveries reveal not only the material culture of the time but also the social dynamics and beliefs that promoted the ritualistic practices associated with warfare and sacrifice.