Bardalfeltet

Bardalfeltet: Travel Back in Time with Historic Rock Carvings

‍Just 11 kilometers west of Steinkjer, you'll find Bardalfeltet, one of Trøndelag's largest and most fascinating collections of rock art. This historic treasure trove offers a unique glimpse into the livelihoods, beliefs, and daily lives of the people who walked these surroundings thousands of years ago. With Steinkjer Camping as your starting point, this is a perfect and easily accessible excursion for history enthusiasts, families with children, and curious explorers alike.

Two Eras on One Single Rock Face

‍What makes Bardalfeltet completely unique in both a national and international context is that it contains rock carvings from two entirely different eras on the exact same rock surface. On the 300-square-meter rock outcrop, you can embark on a voyage of discovery among roughly 400 carved figures. Here, the overlapping carvings serve as living proof of how the location held special significance for people across different eras.

From Stone Age Hunters to Bronze Age Farmers

‍Studying the rock face up close, you can discern around 50 figures from the Stone Age hunter-gatherer culture—where animals and boats were central motifs. On top of these lie nearly 350 figures from the Bronze Age, dominated by ship carvings, footprints, and agricultural symbols. Standing by the rock outcrop and seeing how artists of the past left their permanent marks over several thousand years provides a truly special sense of connection to history.

Practical Information and Tips from Your Hosts

• Location: The site is located at Bardal in Beitstad, approximately 11 km west of Steinkjer town center. It is well-signposted and easy to reach by car.
• Suitable for: Families with children, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a pleasant outdoor cultural experience.
• Tip from your hosts: Bring a magnifying glass or binoculars to examine the details on the rock, and feel free to combine your trip with a visit to the Bøla Reindeer for the complete rock carving tour in Steinkjer!