Owners The Viking Age has ended hundreds of years ago though they continue to capture our imagination today. From antique drinking horns to interesting outfits and cartoons, they have inspired us in every possible way. When it comes to maritime warriors, it’s often difficult to separate facts from fiction. Below we have listed some popular facts you may not know before.
Drinking Horn
It may seem barbarian to drink from a horn in modern times, though it was pretty convenient during the primitive era. It is commonly believed that the mead was served in
drinking horns.
Rune Script for Writing
There is not much information on papers from the Viking age. Though there are numerous stones around Scandinavia telling anecdotes about important Viking events. In the ancient era, Vikings frequently used rune script for writing.
Viking Boats
The iconic Viking boats were a crucial part of the burial ceremonies. The Vikings used the boats for sailing far away to traverse rivers and seaside waters. Typically, there were two types of boats including combat boats and merchants. Vikings also used merchant boats for battle purposes. A few ships have been found unbroken, yet some of the most popular ships that you will come across are Tune, Gokstad, and Skuldelev.
Slave Trade
Similar to many other civilizations, Vikingsalso generally practiced slavery. Owners sold the slaves who did the hardest work in the fields. Also, skilled craftsmen received much better than regular slaves. However, most slaves had no rights and they can be only free either by their owner or if someone buys their freedom.
Vikings Buried their Dead in Boats
Undoubtedly, Vikings loved their boats – so much that they feel honored in owning one. In the Norse belief, courageous soldiers entered festal and celebrated realms after death. It was a conventional belief that vessels that served them throughout their life would also help them in their ultimate destinations. Eminent raiders and renowned women were frequently laid to rest in ships, surrounded by armaments, precious goods and even sacrificed slaves.
Popular Viking Weapons
Axes and Spears were the most commonly used Viking weapons.
Swords were largely used by the high-ranked soldiers.
We hope you have enjoyed reading the article. If we have missed any fact other than the ones listed above, please write to us in the comment section below.
