Into the Viking Age

Hello fellow medieval history enthusiasts,

I have just returned from an action-packed weekend at Hedeby. Once again, the Wikinger Häuser Haithabu were the location of the Hedeby Bouts, an international event for the practice, demonstration, and research into fighting with early medieval weaponry and gear.

This time, attendees came from Denmark, Australia (via Belgium), the Netherlands and Germany. The overall skill level was impressive, and thanks to the fighters proficiency and responsibility, we had no injuries, even though no modern safety gear was worn, and occasionally, sharp weapons were used in experimentation and practice fights.

In addition to hours of training each day, we also ran some experiments which I will tell you more about soon. Personally, I was particularly thrilled by a session of single combat passes with two-handed axe versus one-handed spear and shield. There were some spectacular actions, and control and skill at arms were exemplary. Fortunately, I ran my Viking camera, so I can share with you my footage soon. (Patrons can already watch the 10-minute video here.)

To get an impression of this weekend of living history, camaraderie, and martial arts training, browse Tom Jersø’s gallery of wonderful photos. We are indeed privileged to have him as our event chronicler, and this time he is in the photos too, showing off in his Hedeby klappenrock with authentic fake fur edges (no kidding).

This is also where you can find out what happened after Mikkel had dropped his shield.

Fight in Ribe this autumn

I am happy to announce that finally I have the chance to run a comparable Viking training event at the wonderful Ribe VikingeCenter. This is a most lovely venue, possibly the nicest that there is. The museum is very supportive and is looking forward to having us in week 42, the Danish national holiday.

I am planning on making this a four-day event, from Thursday, October 17, to Sunday, October 20. The houses will be at our disposal, and because the museum ends its 2024 season on the Friday, we will have the place to ourselves on Saturday and Sunday.

If you are interested in taking part, just send me a message by replying to this email. To learn more about my Viking living history and training events, please refer to the information provided below (it is about Hedeby, but the idea and prerequisites are the same):

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If you cannot wait until fall, you might like to visit the Ribe VikingeCenter’s most recommendable spring market next week. I will not be able to make it myself, unfortunately. However, I am looking forward to seeing my old Viking pal Scot King and Marta & Wojtek of Volundr as they stop at our place on their way to Ribe.

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So, that's it for today. Take care, and keep your blade well-honed.

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Yours,

Roland

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