"Vikings" marks the first time that artefacts from all the regions visited during the Vikings' westward expansion have been exhibited together. Among the treasures are silver hoards; pagan grave finds dated 800 to 1050 A.D; looted jewellery; medieval church carvings dated 1050 A.D.; and saga manuscripts from the 13th and 14th centuries.

Themes of exploration, new frontiers, human independence and stewardship of the planet weave the displays together. The exhibit also looks at the mysteries of Viking shipbuilding and navigation, and theories about the disappearance of the Norse colonies in Greenland.

This exhibition made possible through the generous support of the Nordic Council of Ministers and Volvo. Organized by the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution in partnership with the White House Millennium Council.

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