Vikings: The Faroes in the Viking Age

The Faroe Islands hold a fascinating history from the Viking Age, woven with tales of settlement, chieftains, and ancient traditions. According to the Icelandic Færeyinga Saga (The Saga of the Faroese), the first settler was Grímur Kamban, who arrived during the reign of Haraldur Hárfagri (c. 872–930). 

However, archaeological evidence suggests earlier Norse and even Gaelic island settlements, hinting at a rich pre-Viking heritage. The Faroese Løgting (Parliament), dating back to around 825, is one of the oldest parliaments in the world, further testament to the islands' deep historical significance.

Suðuroy in the Viking Era

The Faroes were divided into northern and southern fiefdoms during the early Viking Age. While the Løgting was located in Tórshavn, Suðuroy held its prominence as the religious capital of the islands.

In the village of Hov, meaning "temple," Havgrímur, the chieftain of the southern Faroes, conducted heathen rituals. Known as a “blótmaður mikill” (a man who performed sacrifices), Havgrímur was a central figure in Faroese Viking religious life. Traces of this pagan heritage are scattered across Suðuroy in place names such as Halgafelli (holy mountain) and Hørg (sacrificial mound).

Viking Sites in Suðuroy

• Hov: A partially excavated burial site above the village is believed to belong to Havgrímur. At the peak of the mountain lies Halgafelli, steeped in Viking lore.
• Sandvík: Mentioned in the Færeyinga Saga, this village is where Tórgrímur Illi lived with his sons, who killed Sigmundur Brestisson. Visit Sigmundsgjógv, where Sigmundur washed ashore, and Sigmundarsteinurin (Sigmund's Stone), his burial site.
• Hvalba: Archaeological excavations have uncovered two Viking settlements: one at Skálum, now marked with a memorial, and another at Nes, near Bønhústangi, where 11th-century ruins remain visible.
• Porkeri: Renovations of the village's old church uncovered remnants of a medieval church beneath it, offering a glimpse into the past.

A Story of Conflict and Legacy

Power struggles between chieftains marked the Viking Age in Suðuroy. The Færeyinga Saga recounts battles between Havgrímur, Tróndur, and the northern chieftains Beinir and Brestir, culminating in betrayal and bloodshed. These events left a lasting legacy, shaping the leadership and alliances of the Faroes.

Gaelic Influence

Faroese place names, especially those featuring "Ergi," meaning summer pastures, offer evidence of earlier Gaelic settlers. In Hov, the valley of Ergidalur, located near Vatnsnes, offers a window into this pre-Norse heritage, with ruins still visible today.

Experience the Viking Legacy

For a firsthand glimpse into Faroese Viking history:

• Visit the annual Viking Festival in Hov, where you can witness reenactments, traditional crafts, and cultural activities.
• Book a Viking tour with Ergi in Hov to explore historical sites and learn more about the island’s Viking-era stories.

Suðuroy is a living museum of Viking heritage, offering visitors the chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient settlers and uncover the roots of Faroese culture.