Skien has been known from the sagas as a medieval center dating back to the late 12th century. It had no archaeological record until 1978 when two emergency excavations were carried out. At RÃ¥dhusplassen were found the earliest harbor constructions (14th century), the development of the harbor with a 15th century warehouse, and an 18th or 19th century townhouse. At Handelstorget, remains of buildings show continuous settlement back to the late Viking period, with primitive wattle houses and large timber buildings. (See also <b>AATA</b> <i>20-32</i>) -- AATA