Vikings

When learning about Vikings, the seafaring Norse warriors who roamed Europe from the 8th to 11th centuries. Also known as Norse explorers, they left a trail of trade, settlement, and legend wherever their longships touched shore.

The Viking ship, a sleek, shallow‑draft longship built for speed and versatility was the engine of that expansion. Its design enabled rapid coastal raids and open‑ocean voyages, linking the central entity to Runic alphabet, the set of characters the Norse used to carve messages on wood, stone, and metal. Those runes recorded everything from battle boasts to trade agreements, showing how Vikings relied on written symbols to coordinate far‑flung expeditions. Another key piece of the puzzle is the longhouse, the communal dwelling that served as a social hub, workshop, and defensive shelter. Longhouses anchored settlements, turned raids into sustainable colonies, and reinforced the cultural identity that still draws fascination today. In short, Viking ships facilitated movement, runes preserved stories, and longhouses cemented community – a triple link that defined the Viking age.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dig into these themes from different angles. Some pieces break down ship construction techniques, others decode famous rune stones, and a few explore how modern athletes borrow the Viking spirit for performance. Whether you’re a history buff, a maker curious about ancient craftsmanship, or just someone looking for inspiration, the collection gives practical takeaways and fresh perspectives on the enduring legacy of the Vikings.