Midlaren -‘De Bloemert’: een archeologisch paradijs aan de oevers van het Zuidlaardermeer (Dr.)

Samenvatting

On the flank of a natural ridge – the Hondsrug – the remains of a settlement complex dating from the Middle Iron Age to the Medieval period were uncovered during large-scale excavations (2003–2004). The occupation history starts with several individual, scattered farm-steads. During the Roman period a proper, fixed settlement developed. Although the exact size and layout of this village are still unclear, there are good indications that part of the settlement was reserved for artisan activities (weaving, metalworking and glassmaking). The produced goods were not only used locally, but also exchanged in interregional networks, as is shown by the relatively large number of Roman imports, mainly pottery, brooches and coins. After the Roman period the picture is once more dominated by isolated farmsteads. Occupation continued into the 11th or 12th century, when the farms moved away. Whether the settlement continued as present-day Noordlaren or Midlaren is an issue for further research.