“… Ships Are Their Main Strength.”  Harbour Sites, Arable Lands And Chieftains On Saaremaa Cover Image

“… Ships Are Their Main Strength.” Harbour Sites, Arable Lands And Chieftains On Saaremaa
“… Ships Are Their Main Strength.” Harbour Sites, Arable Lands And Chieftains On Saaremaa

Author(s): Mati Erelt
Subject(s): Archaeology
Published by: Teaduste Akadeemia Kirjastus
Keywords: prehistoric and medieval maritime landscapes of Saaremaa;

Summary/Abstract: The article is an overview of archaeological research done in recent years on the prehistoric and medieval maritime landscapes of Saaremaa, the biggest Estonian island. Coastal settlements in this area were considered as inseparable from maritime activities, which are reliably indicated by ancient harbour sites. Criteria for distinguishing earlier harbour sites, as well as their typical features and the connection with their agrarian hinterland are analysed both on Saaremaa and in other regions around the Baltic. Attention is also paid to social development, and how it was reflected in the distribution and character of harbours. The first distinguishable harbour sites on Saaremaa are briefly described, analysing their origin and development in a broader international context.

  • Issue Year: 8/2004
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 128-162
  • Page Count: 35
  • Language: English