Brattahlíð

Brattahlíð is the name given to the settlement established by Erik the Red in Greenland around 985 AD. It was located in the Eastern Settlement, near modern-day Qassiarsuk. Brattahlíð served as Erik's personal farm and the most prominent settlement in Norse Greenland, acting as the chieftain's seat. The name "Brattahlíð" is Old Norse and translates to "steep slope" or "steep hillside," likely descriptive of the terrain.

Archaeological excavations at the site have revealed the remains of several longhouses, including Erik's own dwelling. These findings have provided valuable insights into the daily life, architecture, and farming practices of the Norse Greenlanders. The settlement was situated in a sheltered fjord, providing protection and fertile land for livestock, which was crucial for their survival in the harsh Arctic environment. Brattahlíð was the center of Norse activity for centuries until the settlement eventually declined and disappeared in the 15th century. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical significance as a tangible link to the Norse exploration and settlement of North America.