Ancient Scandinavia was settled later than other parts of Europe. The low temperatures and harsh conditions during the Pleistocene made the area less suitable for human settlement until around 9700 BC. However, living conditions remained very harsh compared to those in communities to the
Category: History of Europe
The Origins of the Hittites: Where Did These Indo-European Speaking People Live Before Coming to Anatolia?
The origins of the Hittites have long been a topic of debate among historians and archaeologists. Especially regarding their routes of arrival to Anatolia, the development of Proto-Hittite language, and interactions of the Hittites in Anatolia, there exist numerous different views and theories. However,
History of Witchcraft in Europe
The history of witchcraft is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses a range of anthropology, history, theology, and folklore. Its aim is to comprehend the beliefs, practices, and cultural contexts associated with witchcraft. Over the course of history, witchcraft has held a prominent presence in
1040-year-old Viking Age Treasures Found in Denmark
Members of the North Jutland Detector Association in Denmark found two Viking Age treasures near the town of Hobro in the Northern Denmark region. Archaeologists believe that the coins in the treasures are about 1040 years old. HobroHobro is a town located in the
Was Jomsborg Real? New Findings May Support Existence of 10th Century Viking Castle
An archaeological find on the Polish island of Wolin has reignited the long-standing debate surrounding the existence and whereabouts of the fabled 10th century Viking castle of Jomsborg. WolinThe island of Wolin is located in the Baltic Sea, off the coast of northwestern Poland.
Walpurgis Night in European Folklore: History and Traditions
Walpurgis Night, also known as Witches’ Night, is a traditional European festival. Its association with witchcraft dates back to medieval times when it was believed that witches gathered on this night to hold their sabbath. When viewed through a scholarly lens, Walpurgis Night offers
“Halfdan Was Here!” 11 Centuries Ago, a Viking Soldier Carved These on Hagia Sophia
Around the 10th century… A Viking soldier visiting Hagia Sophia carved these words on the marble parapets: “Halfdan was here!” Viking raids on islands and villages in northeastern England in the late eighth century was what started the Viking Age. In the ninth century,
Jewelers of the Steppe: Scythians and Scythian Art
The Scythians were a nomadic society that emerged in the 8th century BC in the Pontic steppes, when the Cimmerians lost their influence. They have been instrumental in the ethnogenesis of many communities in the region, as they dominated both Central Asia and Eastern
The Blood Oath Rites of the Scythians and Huns
The blood oath is a ritual, usually between two men, that provides a symbolic sense of attachment and eternal friendship. Blood oath rituals, common among nomadic peoples in ancient times, were also practiced in settled societies over time. Those who practice the blood oath