Archaeologists from the University of Oslo’s Museum of Cultural History have recently conducted an excavation at Holmetjønn, an ancient mountain cabin site along the historic Nordmannslepa trail. The investigation uncovered evidence of both Viking-age and medieval shelters in the harsh landscape of the Hardangervidda plateau. The findings will provide valuable insights into how travelers in this region sought shelter and sustenance while trekking through the mountains. An Ancient Path The Great Nordmannslepa is one of Norway’s ancient transport routes, stretching across the Hardangervidda and connecting Western and Eastern Norway, explains the University of Oslo report. It was once a crucial path for transporting goods and livestock. This summer, a team of archaeologists explored the remnants of a cabin near Holmetjønn, located about a five kilometer (3 mile) walk from the existing modern Stigstuv tourist lodge, following part of the old trail. The great Nordmannslepa path winds over the Hardangervidda mountain range. (Magne Samdal/KHN University of Oslo) Read moreSection: ArtifactsAncient TechnologyNewsHistory & ArchaeologyAncient PlacesEuropeRead Later