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How did Vikings make sails?
We all know that Vikings sailed the world, from Newfoundland in modern-day Canada to what was then Constantinople, from the Baltic to the Black Sea, and almost everywhere in between.2 days ago — Culture and religion -
Everything you need to know about the Varangian Guard
Long after the last Viking longboat set sail, the Viking martial skill and spirit were still very much a part of medieval warfare. The Varangian Guard, an elite bodyguard of the Byzantine Emperor, was formed out of recruits and mercenaries from mainly Viking societies in northern Europe.4 days ago — History -
The role of magic in Viking societies
Is magic real? Well, it certainly was for many peoples in Viking societies.5 days ago — Culture and religion -
Who was Thorir Hund, the man who allegedly killed St. Olaf, Norway's patron saint?
For a man named after a dog, Thorir "Tore" Hund plays a large and significant role in early medieval Norwegian political and religious history.6 days ago — History -
Fascinating Viking Age discoveries: The Lewis chessmen hoard
When people in Viking societies were not raiding, trading, or colonizing vast swathes of the Western hemisphere, they often enjoyed a good old-fashioned game of chess.6 days ago — History -
The Viking history of Belarus: A primer
Long before Alexander Lukashenko's iron regime alienated the rest of Europe, Belarus had long historical and cultural connections linking it with other European countries.1 week ago — History -
The story of the Jorvik Viking Centre - one man's quest to show just how fun history can be
Forget Hampton Court, The Lake District, or even any jerk chicken store in Notting Hill, one of the United Kingdom's best-kept and most delightful tourist attractions is the Jorvik Viking Centre.1 week ago — News -
What you need to know about the Greece runestones
Long before Scandinavians flocked annually southward to Greece for sun, sand, and summer vacation, a series of runestones revealed a fascinating insight into Scandinavian adventurers almost a millennium before.1 week ago — History -
From "house" bears to peacocks, these are some of the most exotic Viking pets
The Vikings often have a bad rap for being mindless barbarians, only interested in satisfying their greed and more carnal pleasures. Yet one of the more interesting aspects of people in Viking societies is that they loved exotic pets.2 weeks ago — Culture and religion -
The Gjermundbu helmet: One of the most amazing Viking-era finds
On a small farm just north of Oslo, Norway, one day in 1943, a farmer's son uncovered a Viking-era burial mound. Little did he know that the treasures beneath included the famous Gjermundbu helmet, perhaps one of the most iconic symbols of Viking military prowess and power.2 weeks ago — History
