The Vikings Primary

A Viking Longship The ships had one large square sail. In bad weather it was lowered over the ship and fastened down like a tent to protect the men inside. A big longship would be about 30m long and could travel at up to 32km per hour. It would have about 32 oars.

Clothes Viking clothes were made from coarse woollen cloth. Furs were warn in winter to keep warm. Men and women wore belts to carry a purse, knife and keys.

Viking Warriors As the Viking population grew the land could not provide enough food for everyone. Some of the Vikings started to attack and raid other lands. Viking shields were made from wood and iron. The Viking warriors used them to shield their bodies.

Viking Warriors(continued) Viking warriors wore helmets made from leather or iron. A Viking battle-axe was capable of chopping through shields and helmets. Spears were thrown in battles and used for stabbing the enemy. Viking swords were made from rods of iron with steel edges. The handles were sometimes decorated with gold and silver. The Vikings gave their swords names like 'Leg-Biter'.

Homes Viking homes were made of timber planks and woven branches, with turf or thatched roofs. The Vikings would build a longhouse for the family and barns for the animals. In the middle of the room was an open fire set in a long hearth. This gave the Vikings heat and light. Click on this text to see a video.

Gods The Vikings believed that there were many different gods that lived in a place called Asgard. Each god was responsible for a different thing such as war, travel or home. Odin (pictured), also known as Woden, was the god of war. He rode an eight legged horse and he often doubted himself and would spend too long trying to decide whether or not to do things. Click on picture to go to website for worksheet activity.