Viking Warriors

Viking Explorers

The term Viking comes from an Old Icelandic Norse word meaning "sea explorer."

The origins of this group of Scandinavian Pirates are unclear. Historians have not been able to accurately pinpoint a date or location of where the Vikings came from. It is thought they are from either Denmark or Norway.  

Along with their name and origin, the typical Viking helmet has also most likely been misinterpreted through the years. Most people immediately think of the lavish helmets adorned with horns and wings when a Viking Helmet comes to mind, but there is not historical evidence to support these thoughts. It is believed that the Viking helmet was actually very plain. A simple domed helm made of leather is most likely what the Viking Warriors wore while pillaging the seas.

The idea of the horned helmet is most likely associated with the Vikings because of ceremonies held in their supposed homeland. In the 9th Century, ceremonies were held in which men wore decorative helmets, adorned with horns, wings and other pieces of flair. When the Vikings were conquering villages, this style of helmet had faded from use.

The Viking Age is most commonly thought of as the period between the late 700s through the early 1000s, when the Vikings roamed the seas. In their famous long ships, the Vikings traveled throughout the North Atlantic and eventually reached North Africa, Russia, the Middle East and North America. It is believed that the authority of the Christian Church helped to end the Vikings' rule. The Church unified divided countries, enabling them to be stronger and more resilient against invasions.