Raid on Lindisfarne
The Viking period began with the raid on the monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbria, England. This event marked the start of the Viking Age, showcasing the seafaring prowess and ferocity of the Norsemen.
793
795
First Viking Raids in Ireland
The Vikings conducted their first recorded raids in Ireland, attacking the island of Lambay near Dublin. This marked the beginning of a series of raids and eventual settlements in Ireland.
820
Viking Raids on France
Viking raids extended to the Frankish Empire, with attacks on the northern coast of France. These raids would continue for decades, leading to significant Norse influence in the region.
834
Sack of Dorestad
The prosperous trading town of Dorestad in the Frankish Empire was repeatedly attacked by Vikings, demonstrating their interest in trade and wealth accumulation.
865
Great Heathen Army Invades England
A large coalition of Viking warriors, known as the Great Heathen Army, invaded England. This marked a significant escalation in Viking activity and led to the establishment of the Danelaw.
874
Settlement of Iceland
Norse settlers, led by Ingólfr Arnarson, established the first permanent settlement in Iceland. This marked the beginning of Norse colonization in the North Atlantic.
885
Siege of Paris
Viking forces laid siege to Paris, demonstrating their military capabilities and the threat they posed to major European cities. The siege ended with the payment of a large ransom to the Vikings.
900
Formation of the Norse Kingdom of Dublin
The Vikings established the Norse Kingdom of Dublin, which became a major center for trade and power in Ireland.
911
Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte
The Viking leader Rollo was granted land in what is now Normandy, France, in exchange for his loyalty to the Frankish king. This treaty marked the beginning of the Duchy of Normandy.
930
Establishment of the Althing in Iceland
The Althing, one of the world's oldest parliaments, was established in Iceland. This institution played a crucial role in the governance and legal framework of the Icelandic Commonwealth.
985
Discovery of Greenland
Norse explorer Erik the Red discovered and settled Greenland, expanding the reach of Norse exploration and settlement in the North Atlantic.
1000
Conversion to Christianity
The Viking world saw significant conversion to Christianity, particularly in Norway, Denmark, and Iceland. This religious shift marked a major cultural transformation during the Viking period.
1000
Leif Erikson Reaches North America
Leif Erikson, a Norse explorer, reached the shores of North America, specifically a region he called Vinland, believed to be in modern-day Newfoundland, Canada. This marked the first known European contact with North America.
1016
Cnut the Great Becomes King of England
Cnut the Great, a Viking leader, became the king of England, establishing a North Sea Empire that included Denmark, Norway, and parts of Sweden.
1066
Battle of Stamford Bridge
The Battle of Stamford Bridge marked the end of the Viking Age. King Harold Godwinson of England defeated the Norwegian king Harald Hardrada, effectively ending major Viking invasions in England.
