Walking down the same old roads? Revisiting Dutch bog trackways (3200 BC-AD 200)

Abstract

This paper explores the historical and cultural significance of bog trackways in the Netherlands from 3200 BC to AD 200. For three case-study regions, it focuses on the construction, use, and depositions placed near bog trackways — wooden pathways built across marshes and peat bogs that were present in various parts of the Netherlands in prehistory. These trackways are not only seen as functional routes but also as integral parts of the cultural landscape, reflecting the social and ritual practices of Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age communities. 

The article challenges traditional perceptions of bog trackways as mere utilitarian structures, instead presenting them as complex cultural artifacts. It discusses how these trackways were constructed, maintained, and eventually abandoned, offering insights into the technological skills and social organization of prehistoric societies. The authors also examine the environmental context, highlighting how changes in climate and landscape influenced the development and use of these pathways. By revisiting existing archaeological data and incorporating recent finds, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the role of bog trackways in shaping the cultural and physical landscape of the Netherlands. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in understanding these ancient structures, combining archaeological, environmental, and anthropological perspectives. 

The article concludes by underscoring the need for further research to fully uncover the multifaceted roles of bog trackways in prehistoric communities, suggesting that these pathways were more than just practical routes — they were symbolic and ritual spaces that played a significant role in the daily lives and cultural practices of ancient societies. Some Neolithic trackways, such as the Nieuw-Dordrecht trackway, required massive deforestation and labor, suggesting its significance lay in communal effort rather than practical use, as it never fully traversed the bog. Bronze Age trackways were generally narrow, and likely used for resource extraction or ritual purposes, with deposits being placed along and away from the paths. Iron Age trackways appear more focused on connectivity, with improvements like heather sods and sand to support wheeled transport, though their use was often short-lived due to peat growth. The paper highlights how trackway construction and associated deposits reflect both practical and symbolic purposes, with communal labor and ritual significance often outweighing logistical aims. Depositional patterns show a preference for placing objects away from trackways, emphasizing the bog’s role as both resource-rich and sacred space, a space ideally ventured into via a bog trackway.