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Hallvard of Oslo: The Viking Age martyr who died for a slave woman
Like all medieval saints, the life of Hallvard Vebjørnsson is shrouded in both mystery and myth. How did a Viking-era rich farmer's kid become the Patron Saint of Oslo, Norway's shiny capital?1 year ago — History -
Harald Hardrada and Olaf III: A royal father and son, warrior and peacemaker
Have you ever lived in someone's shadow? An older sibling or parent? Well, imagine you are the son of the most revered and fearsome Viking warrior of the early medieval period. How do you make your mark in history? By being the antithesis of everything your father was.2 years ago — History -
Was a Viking saint responsible for the nursery rhyme "London Bridge is falling down"?
Olaf Haraldsson, better known in Norway as Saint Olaf, spent time as a mercenary in the employ of Anglo-Saxon King Æthelred the Unready. During that time, he was said to have been responsible for pulling down London Bridge to stop fellow Vikings sailing up the river Thames to plague his benefactor.2 years ago — Legacy -
New exhibition in Oslo celebrates medieval Norwegian king, Magnus the Law-mender
Rare medieval artifacts on view at Oslo's Historical Museum.2 years ago — News -
The Battle of Stiklestad: The most consequential battle in Norwegian history
According to legend, a battle near a farm in Stiklestad, Norway, saw the fall of a Norwegian King who fought for Christianity. He was later recognized as a saint. His younger half-brother managed to escape death but would go on to seize the crown years later.2 years ago — History -
Olof Skötkonung: The Viking king who embraced Christianity and shaped medieval Sweden
Reigning at the threshold between the early and middle medieval periods, between the widespread worship of the Old Norse religion and the advent of Christianity in Sweden, was Olof Skötkonung, a famed Viking king.2 years ago — History -
Forging the North Sea Empire: The story behind the Battle of Helgeå
One of the most consequential battles in early medieval Europe took place at the confluence of a river in Sweden, involving the forces of three Scandinavian kings. The result helped one of these kings attain immortal glory and forge an empire that was the highpoint of Viking power and influence.2 years ago — Warfare
