In western Norway, a cool underwater discovery is attracting the attention of archaeologists and historians who study early coastal life. Under the seabed near a narrow channel in Grindasundet, close to the village of Telavåg in Øygarden, researchers have identified a long stone structure that appears to have been deliberately built. It is not far from Bergen in Norway. This structure extends across the strait and is located along with another circular mound of rocks. Together, they are thought to be linked to ancient coastal hunting practices. The discovery is unusual, partly because such underwater archaeological sites are rarely preserved in such clear and recognizable form.
Underwater stone structure in Norway shows deliberate human construction
The main structure appears as a continuous belt of stones running across a narrow waterway. Measurements show that its length is more than 25 meters and its width varies in different sections. The arrangement of the stones seems to be deliberate. Some are stacked, while others form a coherent line across the strait.This is not the kind of pattern that would be expected from natural processes alone. Currents can move sediment and scatter debris, but they rarely form such structured structures. That detail has led researchers to believe that the stones were likely placed by human hands centuries ago.Another feature was also identified nearby. It is a circular mound of stones, approximately 15 meters wide and several meters high. It sits separate from the belt but within the same general area. Its purpose is not fully understood, although it may be associated with later construction efforts or modifications of the original structure.
Possible roles of stone belts in ancient whale trapping systems
Experts who have studied the site believe that this stone belt may have been part of a larger structure that was built to trap whales in the water. Such a practice was reportedly used in the western part of Norway in the medieval era.This practice of trapping whales was a simple idea but a complex task. When a whale swims into a particular bay, it is directed towards a particular area. Once the whale was in this area, exit would be prevented by barriers. The stone belt found underwater may have been the basis for this purpose.This principle follows references to the Gulling law, which is considered to be one of the earliest laws in practice in Norway. This law contained references to how the community hunted and how they trapped whales in coastal areas. The structure found inside the water could be a part of this.
How coastal communities worked together to trap whales
Historical records show that whaling in these areas required coordination across entire communities. This was not an individual activity. Instead, groups of people would cooperate when whales were seen entering the bay.Once alerted, villagers will move quickly to close escape routes. Boats were used to guide and restrain the animals. Nets and barriers played a central role in keeping the whales within the enclosed area. After that, hunters will attempt to eliminate the animals over time before making a final capture.Some accounts mention the use of traditional weapons such as spears and arrows. This process can take a long time, sometimes lasting several days. It relied heavily on patience, teamwork and knowledge of the local waters.