In western Norway, a quiet underwater discovery is drawing attention from archaeologists and historians who study early coastal life. Beneath the seabed near a narrow channel in Grindasundet, close to the village of Telavåg in Øygarden, researchers have identified a long stone formation that appears to have been deliberately constructed. It lies not far from Bergen in Norway. The structure stretches across the strait and sits alongside a second circular mound of rocks. Together, they are believed to be linked to ancient coastal hunting practices. The find is unusual, partly because underwater archaeological sites of this kind are rarely preserved in such a clear and recognisable form.
Underwater stone structure in Norway shows intentional human construction
The main structure appears as a continuous belt of stones running across the narrow waterway. Measurements suggest it extends more than 25 metres in length and varies in width across different sections. The arrangement of the stones looks intentional. Some are stacked, while others form a consistent line across the strait.This is not the kind of pattern expected from natural processes alone. Currents can move sediment and scatter debris, but they rarely create structured formations like this. That detail has led researchers to believe the stones were placed by human hands, possibly centuries ago.A second feature was also identified nearby. It is a circular mound of stones, roughly 15 metres wide and several metres high. It sits apart from the belt but within the same general area. Its purpose is not fully understood, though it may be connected to later construction attempts or modifications of the original structure.
Possible roles of the stone belt in ancient whale trapping systems
Experts who have studied this site believe that this stone belt may have been part of a larger structure that was meant for trapping whales in the waters. Such a practice was reportedly used in the medieval ages in the western part of Norway.This practice of trapping whales was a simple idea but a complex task. When a whale swam into a particular bay, it would be directed to a particular area. Once the whale was in this area, the exit would be prevented by barriers. The stone belt that was found underwater may have been a base for this purpose.This theory follows references from the Gulating Law, which is considered to be one of the earliest laws that was practiced in Norway. This law contained references to how the community hunted and how they trapped whales in the coastal inlets. The structure that was found underwater may be a part of this.
How coastal communities worked together to trap whales
Historical records suggest that whale hunting in these regions required coordination across entire communities. It was not an individual activity. Instead, groups of people would collaborate when whales were spotted entering a bay.Once alerted, villagers would move quickly to block escape routes. Boats were used to guide and contain the animals. Nets and barriers played a central role in keeping the whales within the enclosed area. After that, hunters would attempt to exhaust the animals over time before making the final capture.Some accounts mention the use of traditional weapons such as harpoons and arrows. The process could take a long time, sometimes lasting several days. It relied heavily on patience, teamwork, and knowledge of local waters.
