Viking Longships
Viking longships were sleek, narrow vessels used by the Norse people from around the 8th to the 11th century for exploration, trade, and warfare. Characterized by their shallow draft, these ships could navigate both open seas and shallow rivers, allowing Vikings to raid coastal areas and travel inland. Longships were equipped with sails for wind power and oars for manual rowing, making them versatile and fast. Their clinker-built design—overlapping wooden planks—provided strength and flexibility. Ultimately, these ships played a crucial role in the expansion of Viking culture across Europe and beyond.
Additional Insights
-
Viking longships were sleek, narrow vessels used by the Norse explorers from around the 8th to 11th centuries. Known for their agility and speed, these ships had a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate both open seas and shallow rivers. They featured a symmetrical design, enabling them to sail in either direction without turning around. Longships were essential for trade, exploration, and warfare, exemplifying Viking craftsmanship and adaptability. They often had carved dragon heads for protection against sea monsters and to intimidate enemies. The innovative design played a crucial role in Viking expansion across Europe and beyond.