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Rare Byzantine gold coin found in Innlandet County, Norway
A metal detectorist in the municipality of Vestre Slidre has just found a gold coin from Byzantium, perhaps brought to Norway by the 11th-century ruler Harald Hardrada.4 days ago — News -
A deep dive: The mysterious traces of Greece carved on a Swedish runestone
Records of Viking activity in Byzantium are marked on runestones carved in Sweden – but the exploits of one particular commander merit closer attention.2 months ago — History -
The backbone of Viking armies: Understanding the role of huscarls
Huscarls, elite warriors from Anglo-Saxon and Viking societies, showed steadfast loyalty and skill in protecting their nobles, often to the death. Their formidable reputation is thought to have inspired the formation of the Byzantine Empire's Varangian Guard.3 months ago — Warfare -
Who was Harald Hardrada? Part 2: Politics, power, and six feet of English soil
Was there a more dangerous and skillful warrior than Harald Hardrada by the mid-1030s CE? For more than two decades, since he set foot on the battlefield at Stiklestad as a mere teenager, wet behind the ears, his life had been defined by his martial skill.4 months ago — History -
Viking runes and ancient battles: The saga of the Piraeus Lion
In the city of Venice lies a famous Greek lion that has borne witness to epic wars between empires, survived a barrage of 17th-century cannon fire, and felt the expert hands of Viking rune carvers.5 months ago — History -
The mystery of the Viking graffiti in the Hagia Sophia
One of the most famous churches, mosques, and museums all in one, the Hagia Sophia, has runic graffiti from the era when Vikings walked the streets of Constantinople. How and why it got there is a mystery that has only recently been unlocked.6 months ago — History -
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.1 year ago — History -
Elite Viking warriors: Who were the Varangian Guard?
The Vikings who set off to travel south and east to today's territory of Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, and further on to the east and south, were called the Varangians.1 year ago — History
