Viking Equipment and Weapons

The harsh climatic conditions and mountainous terrain of Scandinavia gave very limited opportunities for farming, so there were constant conflicts between communities over fertile land. To maintain prosperity, every villager had to be not only a peasant, but also a warrior. In the historical center of Nordwegen, you can see reconstructions of Viking equipment.

The weapons of the ancient Norsemen were simple and effective. This is a short sword, a light spear and an axe with a very long handle. For protection, a metal helmet was used, and a round shield, often wooden.

Contrary to popular belief, Viking helmets never had horns.

Reconstruction of a battle axe and sword with a silver finish of the ninth century.

This table shows the evolution of swords from the ninth to the eleventh centuries.

As a result of constant skirmishes, the Norwegians gained a wealth of combat experience and over time, communities began to unite for sea robbery and raids on the coastal settlements of Europe. For raids, special sailing and rowing vessels with a long and narrow hull and high-raised bow and stern - Drakkars (Drakkar) were used. This name comes from the Old Norse words Drage-dragon and Kar-ship, literally-dragon ship. Due to their excellent seaworthiness and low draft, the drakkars were suitable for sailing on the sea and fjords, as well as on rivers. Low sides made drakar faintly distinguishable against the background of sea waves, which made it possible to be invisible to the enemy until the last moment.

Vikings reached as far as the Roman Empire's possessions, thriving cities that were sources of good loot. Roman helmet, a Viking trophy. A short and wide Roman gladius sword with an ornate scabbard.