knarrtype

Knarrtype is a term used in maritime archaeology and Norse studies to describe a typological category of knarr ships, the clinker-built trading vessels of medieval Scandinavia. The knarr type is used to group vessels that share certain design features and functions, while allowing for regional and chronological variation. The name derives from the Old Norse knarr, a broad, cargo-oriented ship.

Design and construction: Knarrtype vessels typically featured a broad, rounded hull built clinker-fashion, a single tall mast carrying a large square sail, and a relatively shallow draft suitable for both coastal and open-sea routes. They commonly carried cargo holds designed to maximize freight capacity and often had a shelter at the prow or the stern; oars were present in earlier smaller forms but many larger knarrs relied primarily on sail power.

Variations: Within the knarrtype, scholars differentiate coastal knarrs designed for near-shore trade from larger, ocean-going forms intended for longer voyages such as the North Atlantic routes to Iceland or Greenland. Variation also occurred in keel length, stern and bow shapes, and deck arrangements like deckhouses.

Archaeological evidence: Knarr-type ships are well attested by finds from trade centers and ship burials, including the Skuldelev ships at Roskilde and various vessels excavated at Kaupang, Birka, and other Norse sites. These finds illustrate a vessel optimized for cargo with strong hulls and modest rigging compared with the military longships.

Historical role: The knarrtype played a central role in medieval Norse trade networks, enabling long-distance exchange of goods such as timber, furs, amber, and wine, and supporting expeditions to Britain, the North Atlantic and beyond.