The archaeological site Jelling in Denmark is a Viking Period monumental complex constructed by King Gorm and his son King Harald. Recent excavations here have shown that the traditional theories...Show moreThe archaeological site Jelling in Denmark is a Viking Period monumental complex constructed by King Gorm and his son King Harald. Recent excavations here have shown that the traditional theories about this monument need to be re-evaluated. This thesis endeavours a reconsideration of the site by studying why the monument was built on this location and what the purpose of the monument was. Through comparing Jelling to contemporary ring fortresses and settlements, surveying the archaeological composition of the area surrounding the monument, and analysing type-sites that shows parallels to Jelling, this thesis aims to further our understanding of the monumental complex. The results of the investigations reveal that Jelling’s location was probably chosen for several reasons. When King Gorm constructed the first phase of the monument, he chose a new location, purposely building it on a site with no past cult activity. He did, however, position Jelling in an ideal area for a central place in the kingdom. When King Harald expanded the monument during the second phase, he continued the use of this site probably due to an identification with the location, and its positioning in the centre of the country. The research also indicates that the Jelling complex possibly served more than one purpose. Along with the ring fortresses it formed part of a network for regional control, but shows more of an economic than military influence. Jelling is also an example of an aristocratic cult place, where the union of old and new religious symbols legitimised the conversion to Christianity. Finally, it served as a demonstration of the strength of the monarchy, illustrated by the standardisation of spatial organisation and the presence of authoritative cult symbols. In conclusion, the reconsideration of the Jelling complex indicates that the monument was constructed according to a long tradition of uniting cult and power in a central place.Show less