Archäologische und archäometallurgische Untersuchungen an einer karolingerzeitlichen Flügellanzenspitze aus dem Längsee in Kärnten/Österreich

Abstract

Archaeological and archaeo-metallurgical examinations on the head of a Carolingian winged lance from the Längsee in Carinthia/Austria

Around 1987 the head of a winged lance was recovered from the Längsee in Carinthia which was now examined archaeologically and archaeo-metallurically. It is an extremely well preserved elaborate composite head with pattem welding. Typologically it is identified as a developed winged lance and can be dated to the second half of the 8th Century. It was probably used in a military context; however there are also indications for the use as a banner-lance. The question of origin - import or local - must remain open at the time being. The place of discovery in stagnant water can possibly be explained with a ritual motive. In general, the lance fits well into the typical pattem of equipment of Carantania - Frankish weapons in combination with Avar costume.