The image of Vikings sporting horned helmets is a popular one, often seen in movies, TV shows, and artwork. However, this iconic look is a myth, with no historical or archaeological evidence to support it. The reality is that Viking helmets were simple and functional, designed for battle practicality rather than dramatic flair.
The Myth’s Origins The idea of Vikings wearing horned helmets is largely attributed to 19th-century art. Artists of this period, particularly those involved in costume design for operas, such as Richard Wagner’s “Der Ring des Nibelungen,” began portraying Vikings with horned helmets for dramatic effect. This artistic license, rather than historical accuracy, cemented the image of horned Vikings in popular culture.
Archaeological Evidence Archaeological digs have never unearthed any Viking-era helmets with horns. Real Viking helmets were made from materials like iron or leather, with simple designs that prioritised head and face protection. These practical helmets were essential for combat and lacked the unnecessary adornments of horns.
The True Wearers of Horned Helmets Interestingly, the horned helmet concept dates back much further than the Viking Age. Recent research has revealed that the famed helmets discovered in Viksø, Denmark, which were previously thought to be Viking artefacts, actually date back to around 900 B.C.E., nearly 2,000 years before the Vikings. These helmets, decorated with curved horns, are now believed to be from the Nordic Bronze Age.
- Dating: Radiocarbon dating of birch tar found on one of the horns confirmed their age.
- Significance: The helmets are similar to depictions of headgear found in rock art and figurines from western Iberia and the Mediterranean island of Sardinia. This similarity suggests ties among Bronze Age civilisations across Europe and beyond.
- Cultural Exchange: The horned helmet motif likely travelled from the Near East to Europe, thanks to Phoenician travellers from the eastern Mediterranean coastal area. This highlights how trade and travel facilitated cultural exchange during this period.
Religious and Symbolic Importance The horned helmets were likely worn for symbolic reasons, rather than battle gear. During the Bronze Age, Scandinavian societies were shifting from Sun worship to reverence for animal-like gods. Researchers believe the helmets may have been decorated with feathers and horse hair and were part of an effort to legitimise new forms of leadership through religious ritual. The helmets symbolise religious and political power and are described as “the most impressive religious power hat of the Bronze Age”.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the image of Vikings wearing horned helmets is a popular misconception. The myth originated from 19th-century artistic portrayals, and there is no archaeological evidence to support this image. The actual horned helmets are nearly 3,000 years old, belonging to the Bronze Age, and may have had symbolic and religious significance rather than a practical combat purpose. This historical correction provides a fascinating insight into the way in which cultural myths can develop and persist.
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