In the forest between Bondistranda and Gullhella in Asker lies a heart-shaped boulder into which someone has carved a relief of three faces. No one knows who made the reliefs, when it was done - or why. The stone is moss-grown and blends into the surrounding nature. Therefore, it is not surprising that people mostly pass by without noticing it, and that very few people know about it, even among those who live in the area. This is not a tourist attraction, but a fun destination for those who like mysteries.
The faces are slightly larger than a human face. They have common features - look a bit like trolls - but are also different. Is it the same artist who made them, or are there three different artists who have left their message for posterity here?
We will probably never know. Mosen says that it has been a long time since the faces were carved out. But for how long? A few decades - a few hundred - or maybe a few thousand?
One of the faces is similar to the one found in Kazakhstan in July of this year (2024). It was probably carved out in the Bronze Age several thousand years ago. In an article in Dagbladet on 2 August (2024), it is stated that pictures of the stone have been submitted to associate professor of archeology at UiO, Knut Ivar Austvoll. He stated that the reliefs in Asker are probably not from the Bronze Age, but from modern times, possibly historical times.
A theory among the local population is that a local artist made the reliefs a few decades ago, but that is only a theory. Until someone eventually comes forward and claims paternity, we get to enjoy the mystery. It will probably never be resolved.
To find the stone, follow the blue-marked path straight ahead in the picture above (see the small stake with a blue top). Continue on the path for approx. 200 meters. It is relatively steep uphill most of the way.
Just before you reach the settlement at Gullhella, you will find the stone 30-40 meters to the left of the path. Turn left immediately after the marked pine in the picture below. The building is in the clearing straight ahead.
More excursions: www.turideer.com
This week's excursion: Art in nature - the mysterious stone in Asker.
Suitable for: All ages, but not suitable for wheelchairs or prams. Nice excursion for small children who can't bear to walk that far.
Duration/length: Approx. 5 minutes to walk - approx. 200 meters on the road and 200 meters in the forest.
Getting there: Search for Bondistranda 25 in Asker in Google Maps. Park near this address. Follow county road 167 further towards Gullhella for approx. 200 meters until you pass a pet shop on the right. Cross the bridge over the outlet from Bondivannet and continue approx. 50 meters until you come to an intersection where you will find a small stake marked blue. Follow this forest path for 200 meters as described above. NB! Stay on the same side of the county road as Bondistranda 25.
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