SØFTEN — Archaeologists have uncovered a large Viking Age textile production site in Søften, Denmark, spanning 100,000 square meters. The site, located 10 kilometers north of Aarhus on the Jutland peninsula, dates from sometime between A.D. 600 and 950.

The excavation, which lasted 10 months, was led by archaeologist Liv Stidsing Reher-Langberg. The site contains over 80 pit houses, which were semisubmerged huts used as workshops and dwellings during the Viking era. She stated that the focus on textile production distinguishes this settlement from others of its period. Spindle whorls and weight looms found at the site indicate the activities within the pit houses. Future carbon dating and pollen analysis may provide more details about the type of textile production.

During the excavation, archaeologists discovered specific areas for crafts and production. They also found a single residential home, along with silver coins, glass beads, and pottery. The discovery of the site followed a trial excavation 1.5 years ago, which occurred before the start of construction for a new road and industrial area. Prior to this, people using metal detectors had unearthed several silver coins in the area over the past three decades.

Historian Kasper Andersen said the discovery at Søften contributes to understanding the local economic, cultural, and political structure of the time. During the Viking era, Aarhus, then known as Aros, served as a center for royalty and international trade. Andersen stated that a production site of this scale suggests it was part of a larger, international network rather than catering only to the local area. He indicated that such a place would require a well-organized society with a production line and a market for its output. The textiles produced at Søften would have entered a market larger than the immediate vicinity.

Andersen also stated that the Søften discovery challenges common portrayals of Vikings. He commented that the presence of the site indicates a structured society. Last year, archaeologists discovered another Viking site in Lisbjerg, which was likely inhabited by members of the nobility.