In 2007 Vejle Museum uncovered traces of a substantial fence at Gormsgade 7-9. This was afterwards interpreted as part of the south fence of the large rectangular palisaded enclosure of the Jelling monuments, which was investigated in 2006 and 2007. Further traces of the fence were also found in the west at Vestergade in 2008-2009. Today the pond called Smededammen is situated in the south-east corner of the enclosed area. We do not know whether the pond dates all the way back to the 900s. If this is the case we are uncertain whether it was located inside the enclosure or adjacent to it. 

In 2009 it is planned to extend the evaluation of the area south of the property Vejlevej 2 in Jelling. The objectives are to find traces of the southern boundary of the large enclosure and to confirm the fence’s course further to the east. In addition, it is hoped that remains of stakes can be recovered, which can be used for more accurate dating. The investigation may also clarify Smededammen’s age and its maximum extent. At the same time tests will be taken for analysis, which may improve knowledge of the development of vegetation in the area.  
 

Project participants: Museum Inspector Steen Wulff Andersen, Vejle Museum and Museum Inspector Charlie Christensen, the National Museum.