Stensatta labyrinter i Västsverige. En spatial analys av dess utbredning, datering och tolkning av betydelse

Abstract

Stone labyrinths, also sometimes known as stone mazes or Troy Towns, are an archaeological phenomenon that appears in several places around the world, with a high concentration in northern Europe. In Sweden, there are between 300-400 stone labyrinths spread out around the country, the highest number in a single country in the world. When discussed in archaeology, the labyrinths are often surrounded by interpretations regarding pagan religious beliefs and cult-like uses. They are rarely discussed in a scientific archaeological way. In western Sweden, a majority of the labyrinths are located along the coastline, with a few exceptions being located inland. This essay focuses on mapping out and dating the stone labyrinths in western Sweden with a main focus on spatial analysis through GIS and dating using post-glacial rebound.