[Where are all the Viking helmets?].
Based on archaeological finds and old Norse literature, this article describes the Scandinavian helmet tradition from the Bronze Age to the Viking Age, as well as the Viking culture, with special emphasis on weaponry, burial customs, and head protection. Contrary to what is commonly believed, metal helmets must have been used very infrequently by the Vikings. Only one Viking helmet has been retrieved in Scandinavia. Possible reasons for the wide-spread misunderstanding that the Vikings wore helmets are discussed. The archaeological profession must partly bear the responsibility for not correcting this misunderstanding.
Wester
K
K
Nevrokirurgisk avdeling Haukeland Sykehus 5021 Bergen. knut.gustav.wester@haukeland.no
D001106:Archaeology; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D006260:Head Protective Devices; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049690:History, Ancient; D049691:History, Medieval; D006801:Humans; D010151:Paintings; D012537:Scandinavian and Nordic Countries; D014857:Warfare