The northern ridge of Lindholm Høje dates back to the 5th century AD during the Nordic Iron Age. This high ground rises above the city of Aalborg in Denmark and represents the oldest part of the site.
Environmental factors forced the community to relocate or disperse entirely after sand drifting from the western coast covered much of the area. Extensive deforestation caused exposed sand to blow inland via rough westerly winds, burying parts of the village over time.
The first major archaeological excavation began in 1952 after earlier work started as early as 1889. This project ultimately included 589 of approximately 700 total graves found at the site.
The settlement sits at a critical crossing point over the Limfjord which divides the Jutland peninsula into two parts. Swamps edged the fjord on both sides blocking other routes so travelers could only cross here or much further west at Aggersund during the Viking Age.
A museum adjacent to the site opened in 1992 following a donation from Aalborg Portland A/S cement company. The company donated the facility to commemorate their centennial anniversary that year before receiving an enlargement in 2008.