Eketorp Fort – A Bridge Between the Iron Age and the Viking Age

On the island of Öland lies Eketorp Fort, a fully reconstructed ringfort from the Iron Age. Built in the 4th century and expanded over time, the fort served as both a defensive structure and a social hub. Excavations have revealed residential buildings, craft areas, and fortifications that provide a fascinating glimpse into life over 1,500 years ago.

Similar forts are found across Scandinavia, including Norway, where Østfold is rich in historical sites. Rødsberget near Halden and ruins in Sarpsborg are examples of structures with similar roles in controlling trade routes. These forts illustrate how Iron Age communities developed complex systems that later influenced the Viking Age. In Denmark, Viking ringforts such as Trelleborg and Fyrkat, built in the 10th century, were more advanced but followed the same principles of organization and trade.

Eketorp’s strategic location along the Mörbylånga Trail was key – a route used by both Iron Age and Viking societies. The fort was a precursor to Viking trading hubs like Birka and Kaupang, where commerce and culture flourished.