Axevalla Heath
Axvall, Skara
Axevalla Heath is a large moorland that was created during the Ice Age when the edge of the ice covered the mountain Billingen for around 800 years.
Axevalla Heath
Large quantities of sand and gravel were transported there via the water flow of the glacier rivers. In the area you will find traces of early settlement, such as passage graves aged over 4000 years. You can also see Sweden’s northernmost megalith tomb which is located here.
The most famous grave that you will find on Axevalla Heath is the Norse god Oden’s grave, excavated by Army Captain A. Lindgren in the beginning of the 19th century. The captain, working on a mission from the armed forces, was a novice when the excavation started. Despite this, Captain Lindgren’s very precise work in carefully recording the shapes and positions of rocks and skeletons, has shaped the training of aspiring archaeologists.
During the 18th century until the beginning of the year 1900, Axevalla Heath was used as a training ground for the armed forces of Skaraborg and Västergötland.
On the moorland, which is kept open by grazing animals, you will find common heather, wild thyme and common junipers. From the plains you have a lovely view towards Billingen and the Valle area. The moor is nowadays used for hiking and horse-back riding. Close by you will find the remnants from Axevalla House, which was built during the 13th century.
