Here we have real proof that people who lived in Lithuania decided, at a certain point, to make metal objects for themselves instead of relying on exchange with traders from other lands. Clay casting moulds found in hillforts take us almost three thousand years back. They help scientists to not only understand what kinds of metal were used to make objects—such as spearheads, pins, and rings—and what shape they had, but also to establish possible international connections of that period. Very similar casting moulds for making axes are found both to the west of Lithuania, in Sweden, and to the east, near the Volga River. Archaeologists seek to determine if local artisans themselves mastered the skills, or if artisans skilled in making such axes travelled thousands of kilometres.