A new European archaeological research initiative has begun mapping two important Viking central sites in Sweden: Uppåkra in Skåne and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Birka-Hovgården in Lake Mälaren. The aim of this project, unique in Sweden, is to develop the latest technology and methodology for high-resolution, non-destructive archaeological mapping of ancient sites - from single postholes to entire landscapes. Currently, there is no accurate terrain model for Uppåkra and Birka-Hovgården - the existing ones are not accurate enough for archaeological analysis. The topography of Birka-Hovgården contains a large number of archaeological remains in the form of defense ramparts, house terraces, Sweden's largest collection of burial mounds and port facilities. The topography around Uppåkra plays an important role in the location and structure of the central site. Through airborne laser scanning and hyperspectral analysis, a very accurate terrain model can be generated for Uppåkra and Birka-Hovgården. The model will be of great importance for detailed mapping of archaeological sites in open landscapes and in forested areas, for 3D processing and visualization of the exploration data, and for the development of new cost- and time-efficient documentation methods for use in Swedish archaeology. The expected archaeological results of the project will generate significant new knowledge about two of Sweden's most important archaeological sites - knowledge of value to research, the public and cultural heritage work.