Archaeology of Denmark

The archaeology of Denmark presents an extraordinary rich and varied abundance of archaeological artifacts, exceptionally preserved by the climate and natural conditions in Denmark proper – including boglands, shallow waters, a cold and relatively unvarying climate. At the same time, archaeological study in Denmark has continually and fundamentally influenced the young science of archaeology from its very beginnings. The Danefæ law, according to which valuable objects discovered in Denmark are property of the state, which is obligated to compensate the finders of the objects, has encouraged a culture of amateur metal detecting and led to many important finds.