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Harald Hardrada Sigurdsson and the Viking History of Ringerike in Norway Harald was born in Ringerike in 1015 and was the half-brother of Olaf the Holy, who was also king of Norway. Harald Hardrada was known for his strength, courage and endurance; he was also a skilled warrior and military leader. According to Snorri Sturluson's Heimskringla , there were four kings in Viking history who came from Ringerike: Halfdan the Black Sigurd Syr Olaf the Holy Harald Hardrada Halfdan the Black, in the 9th century, is said to be buried in Halvdanshaugen at Stein Farm. The farm and burial mound are clearly visible from the E16 highway at Steinsletta, so keep an eye out when you drive by. Foto: Stein Gård Sigurd Syr, a local petty king in the late 10th century, fostered together with Queen Åsta both "Olaf the Holy" Haraldson (stepson) and Harald "Hardrada" Sigurdson (son). Harald Hardrada started his long military career already at Stiklestad in 1030. He then saw his half-brother Olaf fall in battle, and the royal power in Norway fall out of the family's hands. Wounded, he escaped to Sweden, and travelled to Kiev early in the 1030s. Here he entered the service of King Jaroslav the Wise. He quickly rose through the ranks and gained a trusted ally in Jaroslav. After a few years, he went on to Miklagard (Istanbul), the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. As an increasingly powerful officer in the Emperor's Varangian Guard, he amassed enormous riches. In the mid-1040s, he returned to Norway and ruled as king together with his nephew Magnus the Good. This lasted only a year before Magnus died of unknown causes. Battle of Stamford Bridge Harald's reign lasted for about 20 years and ended at the Battle of Stamford Bridge, September 25th, 1066, where he was killed. According to a number of historians, the battle marked the end of the Viking Age in Europe. Today, Harald Hardrada is still one of the most famous and respected Viking kings in Norwegian history. His courageous and adventurous life has inspired many, and his legacy lives on in Norway today. Harald and Ellisiv (Elisaveta), oldest daughter of Yaroslav the Wise of Kyiv. When Harald, the last viking king, arrived in Kyiv in the early 1030s, he entered the service of Prince Yaroslav the Wise. He chose to serve in Yaroslav's army and rose through the ranks. Eventually, he became a chieftain for the Norwegian part of the army. The Norwegian soldiers were driven into exile after their chieftains or kings were defeated at home, including at Stiklestad. A close bond developed between Yaroslav and Harald, and Harald asked for his daughter Ellisiv's hand in marriage. Both she and the prince refused - one can imagine that this caused a bad mood in the Norwegian camp. However, Harald thought long-term and took care of the alliance with Yaroslav.slav. After becoming an immensely wealthy man, as an officer in the imperial guard in Constantinople and with clear ambitions to take the throne in Norway, Harald traveled home via Kyiv. This time he proposed to Ellisiv again, and received a YES. Ellisiv was one of four sisters who were all married into European royal houses. Why was Harald, the last Viking king, called Hardrada? Harald Hardrada was called "Hardrada" because he was a tough and fearless leader who was always willing to take risks to achieve his goals. He was also known for his strength and endurance, and he was a skilled warrior and military commander. He was one of the few Viking kings who managed to unite much of Norway under his rule. Harald Hardrada was also known for his military expeditions and conquests. He was involved in wars and conflicts in both Denmark and Sweden. Harald's Artistic Soul Harald Hardrada, still known as the last viking king, was a great supporter of art and culture, and he was a major patron of skalds, who wrote and performed poems and songs about the Vikings' exploits. The Ringerike Style is Born At the same time that Olaf Haraldson and Harald Sigurdson ruled, there was a large quarry on Ulvøya island in Steinsfjorden. There they quarried red Ringerike sandstone. This sandstone was used, among other things, for large rune stones, of which the most important, the Dynnastein, is on display at the Museum of Cultural History in Oslo. Drawing of the Fenris wolf in Ringerike style by Erik Audun Utiskog These stones were richly decorated in a style that today is called the Ringerike Style . This style is found today on a number of objects scattered throughout Europe. From Senja in the north to Sicily in the south, from Dublin in the west to Ukraine in the east, one finds traces of a common European cultural heritage that is also carved in stone here in Ringerike. This tells us that the Vikings were also interested in beautiful art and trade in such objects. Historical Finds Another significant archaeological find is the Gjermundbu find. A burial mound on the Gjermundbu farm in Ringerike turned out to contain a richly equipped warrior grave. Here they also found one of very few fully reconstructed helmets from the Viking Age, the Gjermundbu helmet . Photo: Museum of Cultural History, University of Oslo / Ove Holst Even today, we find traces of our ancestors in the geography of Ringerike. Many have probably enjoyed a day at the beach in Onsakervika, without thinking about the fact that the name means "the bay by Odin's field." The view of Onsakervika can be enjoyed from Frøhaug, "Frey's Mound". Before you head north to Norderhov, "Njord's Mound". This whole story and more is included plays a huge part in our viking ship build at Sundvollen. Want to visit us? You are welcome any time!

Odin's Quest for Knowledge and Wisdom The one-eyed Odin and his ravens, Huginn and Muninn, watch over Hardraade's Viking ship. During the Viking Age (793–1066 AD), Norsemen began to sail out into the world on raids, and among them reigned several great Nordic gods. There were dozens of gods in Norse mythology, here is a selection of some of the most talked about: Odin  - the oldest, most powerful, and wisest of the gods. Thor  - Odin's son and the next most powerful god, also known as the thunder god. Njord  - associated with fertility, wealth, shipping, and fishing; according to myths, he can also calm the sea and extinguish fires. Heimdall  - guardian of the bridge that leads to Asgard, son of Odin. Balder  - associated with light, beauty, love, poetry, and happiness, son of Odin. Váli  - son of Odin and the giantess Rindr, brave in battle, a good rider, and skilled archer. Bragi  - the chef in Valhalla and son of Odin. Týr  - also called "Tyr", decides who will win in battle. Freyr  - the god of fertility, eroticism, peace, and wealth. Ullr  - also called the ski god, bow god, hunting god and shield god. Forseti  - son of Balder, the overseer of justice and mediator in disputes. Víðarr  - during Ragnarok, he will rip open the jaws of the Fenris wolf after it has swallowed Odin, thus avenging his father. Odin, also known as the Allfather, played a central role in Norse mythology . He was the creator of the world and humanity, together with his brothers Vili and Vé. As the supreme god, Odin was known for his wisdom and ability to see into the future. Did you know that Odin lives in Valhalla? One of Odin's most remarkable qualities was his ability to navigate between the realm of the dead and the living world. He rode through the realms on his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, who was equally swift on land, water, and in the air. This made it easy for Odin to maintain his status as the most important, strongest, and wisest god. From his mighty throne in Valhalla, Odin surveys the world. With the wisdom and insight granted to him by sacrificing his eye in exchange for a drink from the giant Mimir's well of knowledge, he governs the fate of both gods and humans. He was a king. His faithful raven companions, Huginn and Muninn, fly daily over the world's treetops to gather thoughts and memories from every possible nook and cranny. Their wingbeats carry even more knowledge to Odin, and they always perform their duties with great loyalty, despite the fact that most ravens can't be trusted. Huginn & Muninn: Odin's Ravens Every day at dawn, Odin releases the ravens Huginn and Muninn so they can embark on their daily flights over Midgard – the world of men. As the ravens soar over mountains, forests, and oceans, they carefully observe what humans are doing and listen intently to what is going on. Their main focus is to gather information for Odin. At midday, they return to Odin, perch on his shoulders, and share their findings. This feedback gives Odin crucial insight into human behavior, thoughts, routines, and activities. Nothing happens in the world that Odin doesn't hear about, and this makes it easy for him to rule and make the right decisions. Did you know that Huginn means "thought" and Muninn means "memory"? In short, Huginn and Muninn were Odin's eyes and ears, his personal intelligence service. Odin and Yggdrasil in Norse Mythology At the heart of Yggdrasil , the World Tree that binds together the nine realms of the universe, Odin embarked on a daunting quest for wisdom. His desire to uncover the secrets of the cosmos drove him to extreme measures. It began with a vision – a whisper from the Norns, weavers of fate. They revealed that true enlightenment lay hidden in the ancient symbols carved into the fabric of the universe. But these symbols were uncooperative; they would not reveal themselves readily. With great determination, Odin sought the ultimate sacrificial gift. He climbed the gnarled branches of Yggdrasil, with confidence in every step. For nine days and nights, he hung there, his body pierced by his own spear, Gungnir. The wound Gungnir left behind did not bleed blood, but knowledge. The pain he felt was a blend of agony and ecstasy. And as the days flowed into nights, Odin's consciousness expanded. Yet it was not enough. The symbols remained enigmatic and out of reach. Despair gnawed at him – but then, in a moment of divine clarity, he understood. Did you know that Odin's son, Heimdall, gave the runes to humans so they could have a written language? He had to carve the symbols into his own skin. Using Gungnir, he performed the task. Suddenly, the symbols became compliant, and as Odin hung in the tree, he learned all the signs. During his time in the tree, he also regained his youth, and his strength was completely renewed. In verses 138-145 of the Hávamál , it is described how these symbols became runes, and that Odin himself was their originator. The knowledge of "runes" was called reginkunnr  - knowledge that belongs to the gods. But knowledge and wisdom come at a price. As Odin descended from Yggdrasil, he felt the weight of the world on his mind. Odin, the most powerful god of all, still captivates us. Odin's enigmatic nature, his connection to Huginn and Muninn, and his unwavering quest for wisdom and knowledge continue to captivate people to this day. And the Hardrada Viking Ship Association is no exception. Did you know that Valhalla has 540 doors? So now you know why the wooden figures of these ancient Norse figures are erected on the construction site. It is simply a tribute to our cultural heritage. The stern of our ship, decorated in Ringerike style - read more here It is said that the Fenris wolf broke free from its chains when Ragnarok (the doom of the world) occurred and killed Odin, the most powerful god. However, we are not so sure; maybe Odin still sits on his throne, gazing down at the new world that was created. That wouldn't surprise us at all!

Klastadskipet: A unique window to the past The Hardraade Viking Ship Association is building a hybrid replica of the Klastad ship The Klastad ship, a remarkable find from the Viking Age, provides a fascinating glimpse into Norway's maritime past. Discovered in 1893 on a farm in Larvik municipality, this Viking ship lay hidden in the earth for centuries before being excavated in 1970. Dating back to the year 998, the ship has been identified as a knarr , a robust cargo ship designed to transport goods over long distances. With a keel length of 16.15 meters, the Klåstad ship was slightly smaller than the more famous Gokstad ship, but an impressive vessel for its time. The total length of the ship was approximately 20 meters. The Klastad ship is one of only four preserved Viking ships found in Norway. The others are: The Oseberg ship:   Known for its elaborate carvings and burial goods. The Gokstad ship:  A larger ship, possibly a royal vessel, also found in a burial mound. The Tune ship:   A less well-preserved ship, but still valuable for understanding Viking shipbuilding. The Klastad ship was found with the keel and parts of the port side intact. Photo: Henrik Bøe / NRK The Klastadship: A Sailing Ship Designed for Long Voyages Although equipped with oars, the Klastad ship was primarily a sailing vessel. The oars were mainly used for maneuvering in narrow waters, such as when approaching a dock. The sail was the primary means of propulsion, and the ship was designed to harness the power of the wind to sail long distances. This makes the Klastad ship quite different from the other famous Viking ships, which were primarily burial ships. The Klastad ship appears to have been a working vessel, perhaps lost in a storm or wrecked. This makes it an even more valuable find, as it provides unique insights into the practical aspects of Viking seafaring and trade. Today, the ship is on display at the Slottsfjell Museum in Tønsberg , Vestfold, where you can admire the impressive construction and learn more about Viking Age seafaring. Interesting facts about the Klastad ship: Clinker-Built:   Clinker building is a method of boat building i n which the edges of hull planks overlap each other. A working vessel:  Unlike the Oseberg and Gokstad ships, which were used for burials, the Klåstad ship was a cargo vessel, likely used for trade.    Built for the open sea:   As a knarr (cargo ship) , it was designed for long voyages and could withstand harsh conditions.    A hybrid of sail and oar:  While primarily a sailing ship, it also had 8 oars for maneuvering in tight spaces.    Dated to 998 AD:   This makes it one of the youngest Viking ships found. Discovered in 1893, excavated in 1970:  It lay hidden in the earth for centuries before being unearthed. Found with cargo:   Remnants of cargo like whetstones and animal hides were found, giving clues about its trade routes.    Smaller than the Gokstad ship:   With a keel length of 16.15 meters, it's slightly smaller than the more famous Gokstad ship. Currently on display at the Slottsfjell Museum:   You can see the ship and learn more about it at the museum in Tønsberg, Norway.  Inspiring modern replicas:   The Hardraade Viking Ship Association is currently building a hybrid replica of the Klåstad ship, using both traditional and modern techniques. The Klastad ship is a unique testament to the maritime skill of the Vikings and gives us valuable insight into how our ancestors traveled, traded, and lived. The Klastad ship could transport up to 30 tons, for example, of stone or iron! A visit to the Slottsfjell Museum to see this magnificent ship is truly a journey back in time and an experience that will fascinate both young and old. Hardraade Viking Ship Association: Dedicated to Viking Age Craftsmanship In collaboration with sponsors, businesses, cultural organizations, politicians, and a bunch of enthusiastic volunteers, Hardraade is building an authentic Viking ship to preserve and share the unique Viking history of Ringerike. Boat builders and volunteers working side by side, ready to join the 11th strake. The experienced boatbuilder Jan Vogt Knutsen , from Oseberg Vikingarv , is leading the construction. Not bad! Together with a team of skilled boatbuilders, apprentices, and volunteers, they are working to realize the dream of seeing a Viking ship sail on Tyrifjorden as it did 1000 years ago. The ship will be launched on Steinsfjorden in the summer of 2025! It will be a majestic Viking ship, inspired by the famous Klastad ship from Vestfold. With its length of over 20 meters and a mighty figurehead in place, it will be an impressive sight to see it glide forward with the sound of slapping waves and oars echoing between the mountains. There will be a total of 12 strakes on the Hardraade ship (10 oak, 2 pine) While the Klastad ship mainly used sails, the ship being built by Hardraade will be powered by both oars and a huge 100 square-meter wool sail . With 28 oars (in contrast to the original ship's 8 oars) and a splendid sail rig, it will be a unique rowing experience, for sure! Since the Hardraade ship is designed for passengers and not cargo, it doesn't need to be as deep as the original. This means it has one less strake (the planks that form the hull): 12 instead of the original 13. Listen to, Knut Grande talk about the Hardraade project Hardraade also has a vision of establishing a living Viking center on Storøya island in Hole municipality, just an hour's drive from Oslo. With the Viking ship as a starting point, the idea is to create a place where crafts, culture, history, and activities such as costume sewing, boat building, blacksmithing, and traditional crafts are at the center. Such a center would also provide children and young people with valuable encounters with Norwegian cultural heritage and contribute to creativity and cultural understanding. In addition, there is little doubt that the entire region would benefit from such an establishment. Community and passion: Volunteer enthusiasts recreate history Hardraade is clearly committed to creating an inclusive community where everyone should feel welcome and valued, regardless of their background. "Diversity enriches us all" - Founder, Ragnar Wergeland With over 100 active members from 25 nations, there is little doubt that community is the cornerstone of the project. The diversity gives everyone who wants to participate the opportunity to learn, grow, and create meaningful relationships. Hardraade also offers various activities where you can learn new skills and explore old craft traditions such as: Boat building : Learning the techniques used to construct a Viking ship, from shaping the timber to joining the planks. Textile production : Exploring the process of creating textiles from raw materials, including spinning wool, weaving fabric, and sewing garments. Wood carving:   Crafting items from wood using Viking Age techniques, such as carving, shaping, and joining. Rune crafting:   Learning about the history and meaning of runes, used by the Vikings and recreating them in wood and stone. Blacksmithing:  Learning the art of forging metal, including heating, hammering, and shaping iron to create tools, weapons, or jewelry. Everyone is welcome to join the fun! Hardraade recreates the Klastad Viking ship with a fierce passion. Every Saturday, between 11 am and 3 pm, a group of eager volunteers gathers at the construction site at Sundvollen. Some swing hammers, some sew, others prepare materials – the possibilities are many! At 1 pm, all year round, everyone gathers for a delightful communal meal around the cooking pit and campfire pans. Hardraade's food group serves up lunch and treats, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. It's incredible what people can achieve when they come together and share knowledge It's proven that active participation in a community like this is beneficial to both physical and mental health. In addition, many shared memories are created, and the pride of working on a historical project like the one Hardraade has embarked on is palpable. Past in Present: Hardraade Recreates the Legacy of the Klastad Viking Ship The hybrid replica of the Klåstad ship that Hardraade is recreating is more than just a ship. It is a symbol of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and commitment to our shared history. It is a project that shows that volunteers can move mountains and that preserving cultural heritage is an investment in the future. The project is an important contribution to keeping our cultural heritage alive. By building and sailing this ship, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the Viking Age and the maritime knowledge that characterized our ancestors. At the same time, it creates pride and identity for the local population and attracts tourists and history buffs from far and wide. The slogan 'Fortid i nåtid' (Past in Present) is the very heartbeat of the Hardraade Viking Ship Association. It is a reminder that history is not just a dusty book on a shelf, but a living force that can inspire and enrich us today.

With the spirit of the past, we sail into the future Look how tightly woven the fabric is! Sails in the Viking Age weren't just functional, they were also symbols of wealth and power. A robust sail was a status symbol that showed prosperity and the ability to master the sea. In a time when seafaring was the fastest and most effective way to travel, the sail was key to the Vikings' identity, development, and not least, all the stories they left behind from distant lands. A sail is said to have been worth two ships! When our Viking ship is launched in the summer of 2025, it will initially only be rowed. There will be 28 oars on board. This Viking sail will be created based on traditions, and woven by hand, just as our ancestors did. But, we don't yet know when the rigging on the ship will be ready so that the sail can be hoisted. Realistically, the sail will likely be hoisted and catching the wind in 2026. The sail will be the boat's wings and will take us safely on many adventures in the years to come. We are very much looking forward to it! It will simply be a joyous day when we can look out over Tyrifjorden and see the Viking ship, with its magnificent sail, glide steadily through the waves. However, the work ahead of us to sew the sail together is extensive. We realized that long ago. Skilled hans hard at work In the meantime, we continue the work while tipping our hats in honor of the Vikings' impressive knowledge and the skill they showed in their craft. We dare say that without the art of sailmaking and the understanding of weather and wind that the Vikings possessed, they would not have existed. And what would the world look like today then? Certainly something to think about. The Textile Group in the Hardråde Viking Ship Association The textile group, led by Hilde Helene Wergeland, deserves all the praise it can get. In addition to holding courses in hand sewing Viking clothing, nalbinding (a kind of knotless knitting), and tablet weaving, they sew Viking clothes for volunteers, show up at weekly sewing gatherings to help anyone who wishes, and are responsible for weaving the sail. In short, the work of weaving what will become the sail for Hardråde began with spinning wool into threads. Then, the threads were woven together into long lengths, which are now waiting to be sewn together. You might think this seems straightforward? Then you're wrong. Wool from about 150 Old Norwegian short-tailed sheep was first carefully sorted and washed at Hoelfeldt Lund in Grimstad before it was specially spun Fortunately, we had the opportunity to benefit from the valuable experiences from the Oseberg ship, which were essential when they produced the sail for the Saga Oseberg (a replica of the Oseberg ship) Our outstanding master weaver, Bjørg Marie Neste, created 12 intricate braids before she and our team of skilled weavers began the task of weaving. The strict standards set by Viking traditions made the process itself very meticulous and demanding. It's important to know what you're doing and stay focused. Bjørg Marie Neste and her long braids of wool The lengths of sailcloth were woven with great force and precision, with specific requirements for details such as the exact number of threads per centimeter in the weave. The quality of the sail we are producing is inspired by the famous Oseberg find , and the craftsmanship and knowledge behind it are palpable. It is difficult to describe all the work and all the hours that have gone into this unique sail so far, and we understand very well why sails were so costly in the Viking Age. The woven pieces will be sewn together into a traditional Viking sail We are currently starting the process of sewing the sail together, which will cover an area of approximately 100 square meters. When completed, the sail's dimensions will be about 9 x 10 meters. That's no small feat But, before we start sewing, the entire sail must undergo a fulling/felting process, which is also in progress. We can also share that sailmaker Frode Bjøru from Seglloftet AS on Jøa in Nord-Trøndelag has been hired as a mentor and guide. So once again, with good help, we are moving the project forward. When everything is sewn together, the sail must be impregnated with melted sheep tallow mixed with our own home-produced tar. This treatment is best carried out outdoors in sunny conditions. We plan to use the rocky outcrops in Hole for this task. So cross your fingers for a great summer in 2026! Want to learn more about the Hardråde project? Click on the image below: Thanks to our dear sponsors We have also been very fortunate with the sponsorship funds we have received, including from the Sparebankstiftelsen DNB. They donated a whole 1.3 mil. kroner to us! This money is earmarked for the sail, motor, and rigging, and makes it possible for us to carry out the tasks in true Viking style. In addition to this, the association has received five million kroner from individuals, businesses, the state, and the municipality. Talk about being lucky! If you want to support the Hardraade project, you can become a member here. If you want to follow the construction of the Viking ship, you can follow us on Facebook or visit the construction site on Saturdays between 11 am and 3 pm.

Magic, Mysticism, and Power in Norse Society The Hardraade Viking Ship Association has received a beautiful volva figure from Elle Bjønness: She has both designed and created this mystical lady - a big thank you to you Elle!    In the mystical world of the Viking Age, where gods and humans lived side by side, a special group of women played an important role: the volvas. These seeresses, with their mystical abilities and deep wisdom, were advisors to kings, healers of the sick, and spiritual guides for the people. Their words could determine fates, their knowledge could save lives, and their insight into the unseen gave them a unique position in Norse society. And, believe it or not, they still exist to this day! Eirik The Reds Saga In the Saga of Erik the Red , from around 1200, the story is told of the völva Thorbjørg in Greenland. She was called "Little Völva" and was known for her prophecies. Every winter, she traveled from farm to farm and visited people who longed to know what the future would bring. In the year 999, a violent storm raged over Greenland. The wealthy farmer Thorkel wanted to know when the storm would end and sent for Thorbjørg. When she arrived at the farm, she was received with great respect. A high seat, decorated with beautiful carvings, was erected in her honor, and soft cushions in strong colors, stuffed with chicken feathers, were placed on the seat. She was served porridge made from goat's milk and a dish of hearts from all the animals on the farm. To get in contact with the spirit world, Thorbjørg asked if any of the women could sing vardlokker  - magic songs that were used to awaken the beings of the underworld. The mistress of the house, Gudrid, explained that she had not learned witchcraft, but that her foster mother in Iceland had taught her a song called vardlokker . Gudrid, who now considered herself a Christian, was unsure whether she should sing such a song, but Thorbjørg assured her that it would not harm her. Gudrid then sang the vardlokker  in a beautiful voice, and a spellbinding silence fell over the room. The volva closed her eyes and listened intently. When Gudrid had finished, Thorbjørg said that many spirits had flocked to them and that she could now see into the future. The storm would be over by spring, she assured them. She also predicted that Gudrid would have descendants to be proud of. Then the men went one by one to the völva and got answers to their questions. Most of her prophecies are said to have come true. Thorbjørg went on to the neighboring farm to share her visions with more people. In the spring of 1000, the weather soon improved, as she had predicted. The Hidden Power of the Viking Age: The Wisdom of the Volva In the icy landscapes of the Viking Age, amidst the clang of swords and the roar of the sea, another kind of power was revered: the power to see the future, the ability to pierce the veil of what is to come and communicate with the unseen. This power was held by the volvas, the Norse seeresses. These women were not just oracles; they were healers, advisors, and spiritual guides, their wisdom sought after by everyone from farmers to kings. Their legacy, etched in sagas and whispered in folklore, continues to fascinate and intrigue us to this day. Secrets of the Volva: When Archaeology and Sagas Whisper Together While written sources from the Viking Age are scarce, archaeological finds and later sagas offer tantalizing glimpses into the lives of these enigmatic Viking age seer women. Their graves, often richer than those of ordinary women, contained objects that hint at their unique status. The Staff: The Volva's World in the Viking Age Perhaps the most iconic symbol of the volva was her staff. These staffs, sometimes made of iron or wood, were likely more than just walking sticks. They may have been used in rituals, to channel spiritual energy, or as symbols of authority. The volva, Velle will first be placed at the Volunteer House in Hønefoss, before eventually getting her permanent place as protector of the Viking ship at Sundvollen. A remarkable find is a beautifully carved wooden staff discovered in a woman's grave in Norway, with the top adorned with a bronze figurine of a horse, possibly symbolizing the volva's ability to travel between worlds. The Clothing Attire The sagas describe volvas as wearing distinctive clothing, often adorned with symbols and talismans. Grave Goods Other objects found in völva graves include knives, herbs, and amulets, suggesting their involvement in healing and magic. Some graves also contain animal remains, particularly of birds, which may have been seen as spirit guides or messengers. Where does the word "Volva" come from? The word "volva" itself is shrouded in mystery. It is believed to be derived from the Old Norse word "völr", which means "staff" or "wand". This connection reinforces the importance of the staff as a symbol of the völva's power and her role as an intermediary between the worlds. Another theory suggests a link to the word "velja", which means "to choose", hinting at the völva's ability to discern the threads of fate and guide people toward their destiny. More than just seers - the volva's role in society: The volva's role in Viking Age society extended far beyond simply predicting the future. They were consulted on a wide range of matters, from love and marriage to warfare and politics. Their wisdom was valued by both individuals and communities, and their pronouncements could carry significant weight. Advisors to the Powerful: Kings and chieftains often sought the advice of völvas before making important decisions. Their ability to foresee the outcome of battles or alliances could be invaluable in a world where survival often depended on strategic choices. Healers and Midwives: Volvas were also skilled in the art of healing, using herbs, rituals, and incantations to treat illnesses and injuries. They may also have assisted in childbirth, offering protection to both mother and child. Spiritual Guides: Perhaps most importantly, volvas acted as spiritual guides, connecting people to the unseen world and helping them navigate the complexities of life and death. They performed rituals, interpreted dreams, and offered comfort in times of hardship. Mythology and Religion: How do the volvas (Viking age seer women) relate to Norse mythology? The volvas were deeply connected to Norse mythology and religion, and their practices were closely intertwined with the world of the gods. The volvas acted as a link between humans and gods, and could communicate with the divine powers through seer, a form of trance or ecstasy. Goddesses like Freyja, associated with seer , fertility, and love, and Odin, god of wisdom, magic, and death, were central figures for the volvas. Odin himself practiced seer, and the volvas often sought his guidance and knowledge. Through seer, the volvas could journey into the spirit world, prophesy the future, heal the sick, and influence the weather. Seer was a powerful, but also dangerous practice, and the volvas had to have a thorough knowledge of rituals and precautions to avoid negative consequences. Their role in society was to convey the will of the gods and help people navigate life's challenges with the support of the divine powers. What was seer? How was it practiced? Seer was a mysterious and complex practice in the Viking Age, a form of magic that involved trance, divination, and manipulation of the world around them. The volvas, those who practiced seer, used chanting, drumming, and special rituals to achieve an altered state of consciousness and journey into the spirit world. There, they could communicate with gods and spirits, obtain information about the future, heal the sick, and even influence the weather. Seer was not without its risks, however. It required great knowledge and control, and incorrect execution could lead to exhaustion, madness, or even death. Some also believed that seer could be misused to harm others, to manipulate or curse. This potential dark side, combined with the fact that seer challenged traditional gender roles (men who practiced seer were often looked down upon), meant that the practice was met with skepticism and fear by some in Viking society. The Volva's Lasting Legacy The volvas legacy extends far beyond the Viking Age. Their image continues to inspire artists, writers, and musicians, and their stories are retold in countless books and films. They represent a powerful archetype: the wise woman, the seer, the guardian of ancient knowledge. In a world increasingly dominated by technology and rationality, the völva reminds us of the enduring power of intuition, spirituality, and the mysteries that lie beyond our understanding. The volvas were more than just fortune tellers; they were integral members of Viking Age society, their wisdom and power shaping the course of lives and communities. Their legacy, preserved in sagas, folklore, and archaeological finds, continues to captivate and inspire us today. As we delve into their world, we are reminded of the enduring human fascination with the unknown and the power of those who dared to bridge the two worlds. Meet Hilde: Hardraade's Seer Woman and Secret Weapon The Hardraade Viking Ship Association has received fantastic news: The völva Hilde has decided to become our great protector and seer! Hilde is a true child of nature with a unique ability to "see" people, and this gift will surely benefit everyone in Hardråde. Imagine the strength it gives us to have such a wise woman by our side! A prophecy of good times for the Hardraade Viking Ship Association! With this volva sitting on the queen's throne, ready to share her wisdom and see into the future, exciting times await Hardraade! Kjærringa med staven! We are naturally very excited about her tales of what awaits us. Will the ship be launched on time? Perhaps she will choose to reveal secrets about who will find love, or what challenges we must prepare for? The Hardaade Viking Ship Association faces a bright future. But, we must all behave ourselves. No one wants to experience the volvas wrath; it could be disastrous for our project. Dronningstolen Imagining the mystical world of the völva in the Viking Age is like peering into a past filled with magic and mystery. Who wouldn't have wanted to be an invisible spectator to their powerful rituals and journeys into the spirit world?