Ancient stone circle found in Skåne

Ancient remains including a 3,000 year-old stone circle and presumed place of sacrifice have been discovered near Vitemölla on Österlen in the far south of Sweden. The site extends over two hectares and is older and bigger than the region's celebrated Ale's Stones.

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The site, presumed to date from the bronze age, is reported to be probably the largest stone circle in the whole of northern Europe.

The find was made by Bob G Lind, a private researcher and archeoastronomer, reports Kvällsposten. Lind has named the stone circle Heimdall's Stones after Woden's son Heimdall who in the Edda (of Norse mythology) is described as the most radiant sun god in the world.

The cult centre site is in the shape of a gigantic sun dial and includes a large phallus symbol pointing due north. Lind explains that the stone sundial shows the sunrise and sunset in connection with moments such as the summer solstice, autumnal equinox and winter solstice.

"I suddenly saw how it all fitted together. My measurements confirmed all the theories," Lind explained.

Lind explained how he stumbled over the site while out walking with friends. He later confirmed his instincts when flying over the area to photograph the site, which is on land owned by the county council.

Heimdall's Stones was inspected on Friday by Thomas Romberg of the regional heritage board, who confirmed the site's distinct pattern, according to Skånska Dagbladet. The find has yet to be officially reported to the National Heritage Board (RAÄ).

The site has also been inspected by archaeologist Nils-Axel Mörner, who described how he was taken aback with amazement.

"Bob G Lind is to be congratulated", Mörner enthuses.

Bob G Lind is reported to be something of a controversial figure and has had a long running feud with the National Heritage Board over the history of Sweden's hitherto largest stone circle site, Ale's Stones in Kåseberga, also on Österlen.

TT/Peter Vinthagen Simpson