Table of Contents
13 Unexpected Viking Trading Routes and Goods
The Vikings are often remembered as fierce warriors, but they were also skilled traders who established extensive networks across Europe, Asia, and even North America. These trading routes and the unusual goods exchanged reveal the Vikings’ diverse interests and adaptability. Here are 13 unexpected Viking trading routes and goods that highlight the adventurous and enterprising spirit of the Norse people.
1. Volga River Route (Russia)
The Volga River route served as a major trading artery for the Vikings, known as Varangians in this region. They navigated from the Baltic Sea to the Caspian Sea, trading goods such as furs, honey, and slaves. One of the most unusual goods exchanged along this route was walrus ivory, which was highly valued for carving and crafting luxury items.
2. Dnieper River Route (Ukraine)
The Dnieper River route was another crucial path for Viking traders, leading from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea and then to Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul). The Vikings traded amber, an unusual and prized fossilized resin, as well as swords and precious metals. The route was also known for its challenging portages and the trade in falcons, which were highly valued in the Middle Eastern markets.
3. Northern Isles Route (Scotland and the Faroe Islands)
The Northern Isles, including the Orkney and Shetland Islands, served as important stopping points for Viking traders. These routes connected Scandinavia with the North Atlantic islands and further west. The Vikings traded wool, textiles, and dried fish, which were staple goods. One of the more unusual items traded was soapstone, which was used for crafting cooking pots and other tools.
4. North Sea Route (England and the Low Countries)
The North Sea was a bustling trade area where Vikings interacted with the Anglo-Saxons and the Franks. Here, they exchanged items such as swords, jewelry, and glass beads. The Vikings also brought back exotic goods like spices and silks, acquired through their contacts in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern markets.
5. Western Route to Greenland and Vinland (North America)
The Vikings ventured westward across the Atlantic, establishing settlements in Greenland and briefly in Vinland (modern-day Newfoundland, Canada). They traded walrus tusks, polar bear furs, and falconry birds. The discovery of grapes and timber in Vinland was notable, as these were scarce in Greenland and Iceland, making them valuable trade goods.
6. Norwegian Coastal Route
The Norwegian coast was a vital route for domestic trade within Scandinavia. The Vikings transported dried fish, particularly cod, which was a significant export item. They also traded in whale and seal products, including oil and hides, which were considered unusual and valuable goods.
7. Icelandic Route
Iceland, settled by Norse explorers, became an important hub in Viking trade networks. The island’s natural resources, such as sulfur used for bleaching textiles, and falcons, prized for hunting, were traded along with woolen goods and dried fish. These goods were exchanged with both mainland Scandinavia and further afield.
8. Baltic Sea Route
The Baltic Sea was a crucial area for Viking trade, connecting them with the Finns, Slavs, and Balts. Here, the Vikings traded furs, slaves, and amber. A particularly unusual trade item was the “tunnfish,” or fermented fish, a delicacy in Scandinavia that was sought after in other regions.
9. Eastern Route to Baghdad (Persia)
The Viking route to Baghdad, through the Volga and Caspian Sea, linked them to the Islamic Caliphate. They traded high-quality swords, furs, and amber for silver coins and luxurious goods such as silks and spices. The Vikings were also known to trade for Islamic coins, which they melted down for silver, an unusual practice that reflects their resourcefulness.
10. Route to Constantinople (Byzantium)
The route to Constantinople was among the most prestigious for Viking traders, who were known as Varangians in the Byzantine Empire. They traded slaves, honey, and weapons in exchange for silk, wine, and other luxury goods. One of the more unusual items Vikings brought back was the intricate Byzantine glassware, which they prized highly.
11. Northern Russia Route
In northern Russia, the Vikings, often referred to as the Rus’, traded with the Finno-Ugric and Slavic peoples. They exchanged goods like furs, honey, and birch bark. Unusually, they also dealt in narwhal tusks, which were marketed as “unicorn horns” in Europe and fetched high prices for their supposed magical properties.
12. Ireland and the British Isles
The Vikings established significant trade connections in Ireland and the British Isles. They traded in slaves, silver, and high-quality swords. Unusual goods included intricately crafted brooches and ornaments, which were highly valued and traded widely.
13. Southern European and Mediterranean Routes
Viking traders reached the Mediterranean, dealing with the Moors in Spain and other southern European cultures. They traded items like furs and slaves for luxurious goods such as spices, wine, and fine textiles. A particularly unusual trade item was coral, which was used in Scandinavian jewelry and decorations.
Conclusion
These 13 unusual Viking trading routes and goods highlight the extensive reach and adaptability of Viking traders. They were not only warriors but also savvy merchants who connected diverse cultures and regions, bringing back a wide array of exotic and valuable goods that influenced their societies.
Have you seen these categories?