The standing stones of Bilden - An old grave in Hadeland

Standing stones are menhirs erected in various geometric shapes. The standing stones at Bilden are in a circular formation, and are known as a stone circle. Excavations of other standing stone areas have shown that they are often cremation burial sites containing charcoal, burned bone fragments, and a few artefacts. It is assumed that also the stone circle at Bilden is a burial site, although no archaeological finds have been made.*

At Bilden, there are burial sites dating back almost 2000 years. Burial traditions have varied throughout time. There could be one or several deceased in the same grave, and they may have been cremated or just buried. Religion, gender, and the status and power of the buried all had an impact on how graves and burial sites were designed. It was important to create a visual monument for those left behind and for future generations. The grave was where the deceased rested or started their journey to “the other side”, but far from everyone was honoured with one that is still visible today.