Discover the Viking world in the major exhibition Life and Legend of the Vikings at British Museum, exhibiting until 22 June 2014. Swords and axes, coins and jewellery, hoards, amulets and religious images show Vikings as traders and international explores. The centre of the exhibition is the recently discovered 37-metre-long Viking warship.
Although only pieces of the ship has been recovered the steel recreation of it makes a rather impressive display. In addition theres cabinets filled with Viking treasures, from gold and silver coins, beautiful jewellery, pearls and decorative objects collected from four continents, from a time when not many travelled at all. There’s also everyday objects, tools and last but not least Viking helmets (without horn). There was also boardgames showing that the Vikings also enjoyed a bit of entertainment. Along with all the objects is a description which is arguably as interesting discovery as the objects on its own, sharing information about Viking as a people in a broader aspect. It also shares the connection between the Scandinavian Vikings and the UK which is rather interesting. The exhibition is illustrated with stunning Scandinavian nature scenery at large posters.
Why not end your museum trip to the restaurant on the 3rd floor, making it a complete day out for the entire family.
Little Scandinavian went last Friday, and at least our session was completely fully booked. Booking in advance is essential. Adults £16.50, children under 16 years go for free. Book your tickets at britishmuseumshoponline.org
If you don’t make it to the British Museum before end of June, or as a follow up if you want to learn more, there’s always the original royal ceremonial Viking longship in display in the Viking Ship Museum Oslo, Norway. The well-preserved Oseberg was built some time during or before the 9th century and measures more than 21 metres.
Photo: Christophe Boisvieux/Corbis. The Oseberg Longship in Oslo.