Upplands runinskrifter 35

Carved in the whispers of a forgotten age, the Upplands runinskrifter 35 stands before us, a granite sentinel guarding secrets from the Viking Age. This imposing runestone, here at Svartsjå slott, isn’t just a weathered rock. It’s a time capsule, etched with the hopes, fears, and memories of those who lived over a thousand years ago. The Upplands runinskrifter 35, also known as U 35, dates back to the 11th century. Its intricate carvings speak volumes about the beliefs and artistry of the Vikings. Notice the two captivating kattlika djur, cat-like creatures, with crossed legs, replacing the traditional cross. These figures, a male and a female (smaller and tailless), are believed to represent Odin’s wolves. Entwined around these figures and along the edge of the stone is a runic serpent, its mouth agape, crowned with a palmette. This serpent, along with the other intricate carvings, helps date the Upplands runinskrifter 35 to approximately 1043. The runes themselves tell a poignant tale. They translate to “Adils and Ösel(?) and Olov(?) they let raise this stone after Vigisl, their father, Ärnfrids husband.” This inscription reveals a family’s love and respect for their patriarch, Vigisl. It also offers a glimpse into the naming conventions of the time. The name Adils is rarely found on runestones, appearing only here and connecting this family to a possibly legendary Swedish king from the 6th century. The Upplands runinskrifter 35 is more than just a stone. It’s a window into the past, a testament to familial love and a reminder of the rich history that surrounds us. Here, at Svartsjå slott, the echoes of the Viking Age still whisper through the runes, waiting to share their stories with those who listen closely.