Raid on Lindisfarne
The Viking Age is often considered to have begun with the infamous raid on the monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbria. This event marked the start of widespread Viking raids across Europe.
793
795
Raid on Iona Abbey
Following the raid on Lindisfarne, Vikings attacked the Iona Abbey in Scotland, further establishing their presence and instilling fear across the British Isles.
800
First Viking Settlement in Ireland
Vikings established their first settlement in Ireland at Dublin, which would later become a significant Viking stronghold and trading center.
820
Viking Raids on the Frankish Empire
Viking raids extended to the Frankish Empire, targeting coastal and riverine settlements, and leading to increased fortifications and defenses by the Franks.
865
Great Heathen Army Invades England
A large Viking force known as the Great Heathen Army invaded England, leading to significant battles and the eventual establishment of the Danelaw in parts of England.
874
Settlement of Iceland
Norse settlers, led by Ingólfr Arnarson, established the first permanent settlement in Iceland, marking the beginning of Norse colonization of the North Atlantic.
885
Siege of Paris
Viking forces laid siege to Paris, leading to a prolonged conflict that ended with the Vikings being paid off to leave, highlighting their influence and the threat they posed to European cities.
900
Establishment of the Duchy of Normandy
Rollo, a Viking leader, was granted land in northern France by the Frankish king. This land became known as Normandy, and Rollo's descendants would go on to play a significant role in European history.
911
Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte
The Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte was signed between the Viking leader Rollo and Charles the Simple of France, officially establishing the Duchy of Normandy and integrating Vikings into European feudal society.
930
Establishment of the Althing in Iceland
The Althing, one of the world's oldest parliamentary institutions, was established in Iceland, demonstrating the development of Norse governance and law.
980
Viking Raids Resume in England
After a period of relative peace, Viking raids on England resumed, leading to increased conflict and the eventual payment of Danegeld to deter Viking attacks.
986
Discovery of Greenland
Erik the Red, a Norse explorer, led the first successful settlement of Greenland, expanding Viking exploration and colonization further west.
1000
Leif Erikson Reaches North America
Leif Erikson, son of Erik the Red, is believed to have reached the shores of North America, specifically the area known as Vinland, making him one of the first Europeans to set foot on the continent.
1016
Cnut the Great Becomes King of England
Cnut the Great, a Viking leader, became the king of England, ruling over a vast North Sea Empire that included Denmark and Norway.
1066
End of the Viking Age
The Viking Age is generally considered to have ended in 1066 with the Battle of Stamford Bridge, where the English king Harold Godwinson defeated the Norwegian king Harald Hardrada, marking the decline of Viking power in Europe.
