Viking-era mobility between the 8th and 10th centuries was largely directed towards the East. Scandinavian warrior-traders travelled through the river systems of Eastern Europe all the way to the Black Sea. Along the route, they established trading stations such as Staraya Ladoga and Gnezdovo, where they exchanged goods. An abundance of archaeological findings is evidence of the Scandinavian influence in this region. At the same time, they confirm the extent of trade relations. Travel activities were joined by the establishment of settlements very soon. Links to the native population were established. The interaction between Scandinavian immigrants and the local population led to the development of the Rus’. This term is used both to describe a territory and a population group. In the 9th century, a dominion was formed around Novgorod and Kyiv with the participation of Scandinavians together with East Slavic, Baltic and Finno-Ugric groups. The Rus’ experienced its first golden age under the rule of Vladimir “the Great” (d. 1015), who brought Christianity to his territory and established dynastic ties with Byzantium.
Gotland, Pilgårds, 10th c.
Quartzite
Visby, Gotlands Museum, Inv. G 280
The runestone of Pilgards bears a runic inscription that gives an account of the journey of five brothers. They travelled on the rivers through Eastern Europe. At least one of the brothers died on the journey in a rapid on the Dnieper. Various stones were erected in his memory, including this runestone from Gotland.
Translated runic inscription:
“This brightly painted stone was set by Hegbjarn and his brothers Rodvisl, Austain and Emund. They set up stones in memory of Rafn south of Rufstain. They penetrated far into Aifor [name of a Dnieper rapid]. Vifil was in command.”
Production: Hacienda Film in cooperation with the Viking Ship Museum Oslo
Length: 03:45 min
Scandinavia and its inhabitants were characterized by great mobility, highly developed abilities in shipping and navigation as well as far-reaching trade relations. The film provides an insight into various aspects of the Viking Age Scandinavian world and sheds light on the way of life of its people: this includes shipping, navigation, trade, slavery and battle.
Objects used daily for everyday life during the Middle Ages were made from various materials. People lived a sustainable lifestyle and used (and reused) wood, bone, horn, antler, clay, fur, fabric and forged metals to produce what they needed – be it life essentials or accessories and ornaments.
Take a closer look at some objects and feel/touch them learning about their materials.
Many objects that we know and use today have been around for a very long time. Their design is so perfect that they have hardly changed over the centuries. Do you recognise archaeological objects from the 8th–10th centuries and identify what they were used for?
Try to find the modern equivalent. To do this, turn the inner wheel and find matching pairs. You will notice that the appearance and use of many objects have remained almost the same even after 1000 years.