The excavation in Dalköpinge teaches us more about the prehistory of Trelleborg.

In late August 2023, one of the largest archaeological excavations in Skåne in many years began in Dalköpinge, Trelleborg. The excavation will be conducted over three months in the fall of 2023 and three months in the spring of 2024. The entire investigation area covers an area of 188,595 square meters and contains remains from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age.

The Trelleborg area has been densely populated both during prehistoric and historical times, with numerous remains of graves and settlements. The rich agricultural soils, proximity to the Öresund strait and the continent, and the relatively favorable climate can explain the high population density and the long history of settlement in the area.

During the preliminary investigation conducted in November and December 2021, remains from the entire prehistoric period were discovered. From the Neolithic period, there were houses, huts, and graves. In the center of the area, on the highest point, remains of a plowed-down burial mound from the Bronze Age were found, with a central grave containing magnificent finds. The majority of the remains consist of Iron Age houses, known as longhouses.

The excavation holds great potential for answering questions about the local landscape and the social and economic aspects of the people who lived at the site during different time periods. There will also be a significant opportunity to study the evolution of settlements over time and the relationships between burial areas and settlements.

The excavation is being carried out by Sydsvensk Arkeologi and Arkeologerna, the Swedish National Historical Museums, on behalf of the County Administrative Board (Länsstyrelsen) based on the Cultural Heritage Act. This work is being conducted because the Swedish Prison and Probation Service intends to establish a correctional facility in Dalköpinge.