The Viking Age was the period from 8th to 11th century during which Vikings achieved unrivalled boat building, navigational and seamanship skills allowing them to travel widely throughout Northern and Western Europe, the North Atlantic, into the Mediterranean and deep into the rivers of Russia and the Ukraine.
Council of Europe values
At a time when few people were travelling, the Vikings raided, traded and settled extensively. For centuries they served as a vector for the transmission of culture and traditions throughout the European continent. The Viking heritage therefore unites the peoples of present-day Europe.
Viking Routes is certified Cultural Route of the Council of Europe since 1993.