Values of the Archaeological Heritage Landscape in Sweden

In this article, I use the theoretical lens of critical heritage studies to analyse how different values of landscape, heritage, and contract archaeology relate in what I call the archaeological heritage landscape. The aim is to show how contract archaeology can strengthen heritage work and become a valuable resource for the wider society. Utilising an interdisciplinary viewpoint, I analyse the concept and values of the archaeological heritage landscape to develop a better understanding of how multivocal perceptions and evaluations are formed, and of their underpinning dynamics. I also look for deficiencies in, and forces that impact contract archaeology in Sweden and consider how it can accommodate diverging views while becoming more relevant for society. I conclude that both authorities and archaeological professionals need to recognise a wider array of subjective values beyond antiquarian and economic perspectives, together with the understanding that landscape values are dynamic.