A recent archaeological excavation at Gullberg Fortress in Sweden has uncovered a fascinating array of artefacts, including a distinctive dagger known as a ‘bollock dagger’ or a ‘ballock dagger’. The findings shed light on medieval life and offer a glimpse into the fortress’s history as a strategic stronghold. Located in Västra Götaland, the 13th-century fortress has revealed these objects during ongoing digs by the University of Gothenburg, sparking interest in their historical and cultural significance.
The excavation in spring 2025 unearthed several well-preserved items buried in the fortress’s soil. Among them is a bronze dagger, approximately 20 centimetres long, with a hilt crafted to resemble testicles. Archaeologists suggest this unusual design may have served as a humorous or symbolic gesture, possibly linked to medieval notions of masculinity or as a personal statement by its owner. Other finds include a bronze belt buckle, pottery shards, and iron tools, all dating to the fortress’s peak use between the 13th and 15th centuries. These artefacts indicate a vibrant community engaged in trade, defence, and daily activities.
Credit: Arkeologerna
Gullberg Fortress, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Göta River, was a key defensive site during the medieval period. It controlled river access and withstood multiple sieges. Recent discoveries suggest it was a military hub and a place where skilled artisans worked. The dagger’s craftsmanship and detailed bronze casting point to local metalworking expertise, while the pottery and tools reflect everyday life within the fortress walls. Researchers believe the items were either lost or deliberately buried, possibly during a siege or abandonment.
The University of Gothenburg team, led by Professor Anna Ihr, has described the finds as a window into the fortress’s social and cultural dynamics. In a statement reported by Archaeology Magazine (May 2025), Ihr noted the dagger’s “cheeky design” likely amused its medieval owner, offering a rare glimpse into humour from the period. The artefacts are undergoing analysis to determine their exact age and context, with plans for public display at a local museum in Västra Götaland.
These artefacts underscore the importance of continued archaeological work at Gullberg, a site intermittently explored since the 19th century. As excavations progress, researchers hope to uncover more evidence of the fortress’s role in regional power struggles and its inhabitants’ daily lives. For now, the bollocks-shaped dagger stands out as a quirky testament to the ingenuity and humour of those who lived within its walls centuries ago.
- HeritageDaily. (2025). Bollocks-shaped dagger among new discoveries at Gullberg Fortress.
- Archaeology Magazine. (2025). Unique medieval dagger found at Swedish fortress.
- University of Gothenburg. (2025). New finds at Gullberg Fortress excavation.
- The Local Sweden. (2025). Archaeologists uncover medieval artefacts at Gullberg site.
