Viking History in Haugesund

The Haugesund region holds a special place in Norway’s Viking history. Several Viking kings lived and ruled here, and the area is considered one of the most important power centres of the Viking Age. Through the landscape, the coastline and the historic sites, you can still trace the remains of a time that helped shape the Norway we know today.

When was the Viking Age?

The Viking Age is generally considered to have lasted from around AD 750 to 1100. Two key historical events traditionally mark the beginning and the end:

• The raid on Lindisfarne in 793 marked the beginning of the viking age
• The Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066 marked the end of the viking age

What is a Viking?

In the Viking Age, “to go Viking” was something you did, not something you were. It described seafaring warriors from Scandinavia who travelled long distances to raid, trade and settle.

But Vikings were not only warriors. They were also farmers, traders and craftsmen, bringing new ideas and influences back from their travels. The word “Viking” may stem from the Old Norse vík (bay) or víg (battle). Today, the term is used to describe the people who lived in Scandinavia during this period, as well as those who settled in the areas they travelled to.

How did Vikings live in Norway

In Norway, Vikings often lived in small coastal communities. They made their living through farming, fishing and craftwork, and relied on the sea as their main travel route. Many lived in longhouses, where both people and animals were sheltered under the same roof.

Their advanced shipbuilding skills allowed them to travel far. These ships were used for trade, exploration and warfare. At Avaldsnes, you can learn more about daily life in the Viking Age and how society was structured.

Runes – the writing system of the Vikings

Runes were the script used during the Viking Age. Each rune represented a letter, and the symbols could be combined to form words. The runes also carried symbolic meaning, with each character having its own name.

Runes were carved into stone, wood, bone and metal on weapons, jewellery, tools and memorial stones. Because the runes were suited for carving into hard surfaces, we say that runes were carved – not written.

The birthplace of Norway and the Nordvegen sea route

The name Norway, or Norðrvegr in Old Norse, comes from the sea route along the west coast. Unlike many countries named after tribes or regions, Norway is named after the seaway that connected the country.

This route was called Nordvegen – “the way to the north” – and provided sailors with a safe and sheltered passage. The journey went from the south, past Jæren, through Karmsundet and northwards.

Karmsundet by Avaldsnes was a key point on this route. Sheltered from the open sea, it became an important position for Vikings and traders. The earliest known use of the name Norway is linked to this very stretch of coast.

Avaldsnes – a Viking Age power centre

Avaldsnes is considered one of Norway’s most significant historic sites in terms of viking age. According to the sagas, King Harald Fairhair ruled from here, and Avaldsnes is described as Norway’s first royal seat. It was a major centre of power throughout the Viking Age, crucial for controlling the coastal shipping route.

Today, you can visit the area and explore the Nordvegen History Centre, the Viking Farm and St. Olav’s Church at Avaldsnes.

Haraldshaugen – Norway’s national monument

Haraldshaugen is located just outside Haugesund town centre and is Norway’s national monument, raised in memory of Harald Fairhair and the unification of Norway. The sagas describe where the king was buried, and for generations people believed Haraldshaugen was the site that matched this description.

Life through the seasons in the Viking Age

The Viking Age was not only marked by travel, trade and warfare, but also by everyday life shaped by the seasons. Life was closely tied to nature, farming and steady rhythms throughout the year. Families lived and worked together, and women, men and children all had important roles. Women held a more prominent position here than anywhere else in Europe at the time.

Just like today, the year was divided into seasons, with gatherings and celebrations playing an important part in community life. These events combined belief, tradition and practical needs, and offered time for food, storytelling and social life – welcome breaks in an otherwise labour-intensive year.

The Viking Festival at Avaldsnes

Every June, Avaldsnes transforms into a lively Viking village. The Viking Festival brings together participants from across Europe who demonstrate crafts, cooking and combat as it may have looked in Viking times.

Visitors can try archery, watch combat displays and learn more through storytelling. The festival is a great experience both for history enthusiasts and families wanting something memorable and educational.

Learn more about the Viking Age

The Viking history of the Haugesund region offers a great insight of how the Viking Age shaped people, society and the country of Norway. The sites in this region give a closer look into how people lived and thought during this period, and the role this part of Norway played.