Viking Silver Hoard Reveals Far-Reaching Trade Links with Islamic World

Viking Silver Hoard Reveals Far-Reaching Trade Links with Islamic World
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A new study on the Bedale Hoard, a remarkable Viking-Age silver treasure discovered in North Yorkshire, has unveiled the international scope of Viking wealth and their extensive commercial networks, Phys.org reported. Led by Dr. Jane Kershaw, an Associate Professor of Viking Age Archaeology, the research used geochemical analysis to trace the origins of the silver ingots and jewelry.

The study’s most significant finding is that a substantial portion of the hoard’s silver, specifically nine ingots, originated from the Islamic Caliphate in what is now Iran and Iraq. This Islamic silver, in the form of coins known as dirhams, was transported to Scandinavia via eastern trade routes before making its way to England.

This discovery challenges the traditional view of Vikings as primarily raiders who acquired wealth through looting. While raiding was a part of their economic strategy, the Bedale Hoard provides compelling evidence of their participation in far-reaching trade, connecting northern Europe to the Middle East and Central Asia.