Only a select few developed into international trading posts. Trading centers varied in size, character, and significance. These appeared in central locations along Scandinavia's coasts near natural harbors or fjords. Trading towns Īt the beginning of the Viking Age, the first proper trading towns developed in Scandinavia. Such goods were reintroduced into the economy through either trade or markets that were set up by the Vikings for the purpose of selling plundered objects. Viking trade and raids helped reintroduce coins and other valuable goods that were either traded for or stolen back into the economy. Prior to the start of the Viking Age trade had begun to rise again but was highly dependent on bartering, meaning that all trade hinged on “a double coincidence of wants”. The collapse of the Roman Empire significantly reduced the European economy. Trade routes would play an important role in rebuilding the economy of Europe during the Viking Age. The Vikings are also sent merchants as far west as Greenland and North America. The Iberian example shows how Viking were often traders and raiders, who in the aftermath of raids would use their newfound established power to establish trade.
In Iberia the first trade and exploration was likely in minerals due to the role that the region played in the Roman Period. Several trade routes disconnected Scandinavia with the Mediterranean with trade routes that ran through Central Europe and around the Iberian Peninsula. These trade routes were not only brought luxury and exotic goods from the Far East but also an overwhelming amount of silver Arab coins that were melted down for silver and also used for trade.
The Volga and Dnieper Trade Routes were the two main trade routes that connected Northern Europe with Constantinople, Jerusalem, Baghdad, and the Caspian Sea, and the end of the Silk Road. The Vikings also engaged in trade with merchants throughout Europe, Asia and the Far East. Viking raids likely followed such established trade routes. The majority of trade was conducted among the several ports that lined the Scandinavian coasts, and the routes were well enough established that they were frequented by pirates looking to seize possessions. Improvements in ship technology and cargo capabilities made trade and the transport of goods much easier, Especially as Europe began to shift to a bulk economy. Trade took place on a gold level and over short and long distances. The Vikings had a vast, expansive, and planned out trade network. The Viking economy and trade network also effectively helped rebuild the European economy after the fall of the Roman Empire.
Evidence for the centrality of trade and economy can be found in the criminal archaeological record through evidence of theft, counterfeit coins, and smuggling. Vikings also established a "bullion economy" in which weighed silver, and to a lesser extent gold, was used as a means of exchange. Viking trading centres and trade routes would bring tremendous wealth and plenty of exotic goods such as Arab coins, Chinese Silks, and Indian Gems.
#Viking conquest unique items series
The Vikings developed several trading centres both in Scandinavia and abroad as well as a series of long-distance trading routes during the Viking Age (c. While the Vikings are perhaps best known for accumulating wealth by plunder, tribute, and conquest, they were also skilled and successful traders. ( February 2020) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message) The references used may be made clearer with a different or consistent style of citation and footnoting. If one has chosen to play the storyline, some heroes will join the player's party while progressing through the story, while others must still be purchased.This article has an unclear citation style. Depending on the circumstances, the player can hire a hero for free, by completing a quest, or payment. Heroes in Viking Conquest are characters with unique backstories, names, skills and attributes. You can help out by reviewing the contents for outdated information, making changes as necessary, once you believe the article is up to date, amend the based on version number.