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Site Map: Sites 6-14
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12. Stone-Age settlement dwelling site on Mietinsaari Island in Joutseno
People first lived along the coast more than 6000 years ago. Many different kinds of pottery have been found along the shore, such as the newer Early Combed Ware, Typical Combed Ware, and Kierikki and Pöljä pottery. On the basis of the pottery types, habitation has been dated over a period of some 2500 years, (4500-1900 B.C.). Shallow depressions from where inhabitants of old once lived can still be seen at the site.
The Mietinsaari dwelling site is located on a bank exposed by receding waters during three different periods. The settlement was at least 250x75 metres wide. The foundations of two Stone-Age dwellings have been found in the area, along with pieces of pottery, stone objects, many fragments, and burnt bones of mammals and fish (cyprinid, pike). The settlement was discovered in 1976. It has a lovely sandy beach.
Driving directions: From the Mietinsaari ferry, continue along Huusniemi road for about 2.5 km until you come to a T-junction. Turn left on Arpolahdentie road. Drive straight for about 4 km, then turn onto the narrow road to the left just before the fishing harbour. In spring the road may be in poor condition. At such times it is wise to leave vehicles at the beach turning space where the road ends. From the turning space, walk about 600 m along the small road to reach the site.