Unveiling North America’s Ancient Runestone in Ontario’s Wilderness

Tue Oct 14 2025 16:21:42 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Experts reveal the discovery of a runestone inscribed with 255 runes in northern Ontario, prompting public engagement in understanding its origins.

The discovery of a runestone in Ontario, believed to be one of North America's oldest, has sparked interest among historians and archaeologists. Unearthed after falling trees revealed its presence, the stone bears 255 runes and a boat image, leading to questions about its origins, dating back to 2015.

The ancient Canadian forest harbored a stone with inscriptions that could change the understanding of early communication in North America. Discovered in 2015 near Wawa, Ontario, the runestone was unearthed following the collapse of two trees, which revealed 255 carved runes alongside an intriguing boat image.

Initial assumptions of Viking influence arose, coinciding with North America's sole confirmed Viking settlement located in Newfoundland. However, researchers quickly dismissed this theory, reaffirming that the stone is not a forgery like the infamous Kensington Runestone, which has been debunked as a 19th-century fabrication.

Kristel Zilmer, a runologist from the University of Oslo, emphasized the significance of the find. She noted that the stone showcases how knowledge spread among people in ways that left traces in unlikely locations.

Archaeologist Ryan Primrose, who investigated the site, expressed his astonishment, stating he never anticipated finding such a relic in his career. As research continues, the team is now reaching out to the public for assistance in unraveling the mysteries behind this captivating artifact.