Viking Wonders: New exhibition at the Yorkshire Museum from July 2025!

Viking Wonders: New exhibition at the Yorkshire Museum from July 2025!

On July 11, 2025, Yorkshire Museum will open the much-anticipated Viking North exhibition. This show, included in the museum's regular admission price, is dedicated to the Viking Age in northern England, which dates from 866 to 1066. The presentation will feature extraordinary objects, many of which have not been seen publicly for decades. Some artifacts are even being exhibited for the first time, which should only increase visitors' curiosity.

The exhibition combines new archaeological findings and modern technology to give guests a deep insight into this fascinating era. Highlights include exhibits from the museum's own collection as well as significant finds from the Vale of York Treasure. Loans from across England will also be presented, including rare finds from the Viking camp in Aldwark, North Yorkshire. These artifacts highlight the central role of the North as a center of Viking power in England.

Special exhibits and their significance

A notable highlight of the exhibition is the York Helmet, which was discovered in 1982. This helmet is one of only six surviving Anglo-Saxon examples and is considered the best preserved of its kind. It was found by Andy Shaw, a machine operator, during preparations for the construction of a new shopping center in York. The discovery came when Shaw's machine struck a hard object, which soon turned out to be the York Helmet.

The helmet, which is made of an iron and copper alloy and stylistically belongs to the Northumbria region, is one of the most important finds of the Viking Age. It was found in a wood-lined pit along with other artifacts such as antler fragments and stone. The design of the helmet features many unique details, including two low brass crests forming a cross shape and a Latin inscription that essentially translates to "In the name of our Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God; and to all we say Amen / Oshere / Christ." This inscription gives the helmet exceptional cultural and historical significance.

Dr. Adam Parker, Curator of Archeology at Yorkshire Museum, highlights how the arrival of the Great Viking Army in 866 AD transformed the region. The exhibition not only offers insights into the history of the Vikings, but also highlights their influence on the entire region. The exhibits are presented in the surroundings of the abbey ruins in the Museum Gardens, adding an additional historical ambience to the visit.

In addition to the exhibition, a diverse program of events is offered that further delves into the topics of the Viking Age and actively involves visitors. “Viking North” promises not just a simple exhibition, but a comprehensive experience that appeals to both those with a thirst for knowledge and those interested in history.

For more information about the exhibition and the finds, please visit Nordic.info and Yorkshire Museum.