Ronningsgift

Abstract

This thesis examines the sheep shed called Ronningsgift, and its historical functions and geographical location. The study aims to make a comprehensive gathering of the existing knowledge and to shed light on new theories about the history of Ronningsgift. This is done through desk research including literature and archive search, as well as an investigation and description of the construction and materials, and an interview. Further, I got the opportunity to take part of the results of two C14 samples from Ronningsgift. The literature and archive search shows that the most common theory of the historical function is as a guest house (gäststuga/högstuga) or more traditionally called, Malstäue/Malsteuvu. However, one source suggests that parts of Ronningsgift might be from a residential building, which is also supported by the building investigation. The results from the C14 samples show that the oldest part of the building is from the 14th century. Ronningsgift is located in the south of Gotland, on pastureland belonging to the farm Ronnings. The study shows that according to historical sources, this is not the original location, but that Ronningsgift has most likely been moved to its current location from the residential area of Ronnings farm. The building investigation show that Ronningsgift likely originated from two different buildings, with the oldest part coming from an old residential building. The results from the C14 samples show that some parts of the original building have been kept despite later restorations. The study provides a summary of the existing information on Ronningsgift and provides new insights into what the building may have been originally.