Arriving in Antiquity

The Living Past in Scania

Abstract

When visiting Scania one will find many archaeological and historical reconstructions spread all over the province. These reconstructions constitute an attractive form of mediation. They have in fact in recent times become important competitors to the museum exhibitions in presenting the Past to the Public at large. But how is the past presented? What knowledge and experience does one achieve by visiting these places? The Scanian reconstructions are presented as the author makes a journey back in time, from the Middle Ages to the Stone Age. Expectations and reality are confronted during this voyage in the world of reconstructions. The examination reveals some typical traits in the mediation of each period. These traits are then related to evolutionist thought and research traditions in archaeology. The article also discusses whether there is a characteristic regional way of reconstruction in Scania.