The traces of the past are all around us. In open landscapes, in forest glades and in the middle of cities. Ancient remains and other cultural relics tell stories about the people who lived before us and reveal how today's society evolved.

Archaeology can be described as the study of cultures, societies and people of older times. An important part of the source material consists of prehistoric and historical relics. The Swedish National Heritage Board works to protect and preserve ancient remains and other historical traces in the environment.

Preserve, protect and document

The Swedish National Heritage Board gathers, administers and disseminates knowledge of the country's ancient remains. This work includes developing methods to find, interpret, document and monitor these remains in the landscape. Documenting the country's ancient remains and developing a directory of these remains are important aspects of our work. Over the years the agency has mapped and registered almost a million ancient remains.

Archaeological commissioned activities

The Swedish National Heritage Board's department for archaeological investigations (UV) initiates, leads and participates in archaeological investigative activities on a commission basis. Their activity is based at six offices in southern Sweden. The department's website features information about current excavations and research, new projects and their latest exciting finds.

Forest relics tell a story

Many ancient remains and cultural relics are damaged or destroyed by modern forestry. The Forest and History project aims to improve knowledge of the cultural environments in forests. The relics, which are physical as well as intangible, are inventoried and documented under the supervision of trained archaeologists. Clear and easily accessible information about forest relics reduces the risk of these relics being destroyed or lost.

Rune department - our rune experts

The Swedish National Heritage Board works to protect and preserve the country's rune stones. Our experts collect and convey knowledge about rune stones and runic inscriptions. Our activities include investigating, interpreting, documenting and publishing runic inscriptions and engaging what we call rune stone sponsors.