vistelsetiden
Vistelsetiden, or the "Age of the Vikings," refers to a period in European history spanning roughly from the late 8th century to the mid-11th century, during which Norse warriors, traders, and settlers—known as Vikings—expanded their influence across large parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The term originates from the Old Norse word *víkingr*, meaning "pirate raid" or "sea expedition," which describes the primary activities of this era.
The Viking Age began with the first recorded raids on coastal monasteries in England and Ireland in
Viking society was characterized by a strong maritime culture, with longships enabling rapid and extensive travel.
The Viking Age gradually declined due to a combination of factors, including Christianization, internal conflicts, and