Episode Information

Over a thousand years ago, the Vikings swept like a storm through the world. These Scandinavian warriors plundered, killed and enslaved many, but they also changed society forever and they still beguile and fascinate us. Now, new discoveries challenge what we thought we knew about them. 'Viking Empires' reveals how the Vikings changed the course of history. Beginning in the 790s, Scandinavian raiders attacked monasteries in Britain and Ireland, and a new discovery suggests they called on supernatural powers in their quest for riches. From around 850 AD, the Vikings began to settle down. One of their leaders, Ivarr, built an empire in the North Atlantic, and in 2020 archaeologists discovered the harbour where he docked as many as 200 ships. After establishing themselves in Dublin and York, Ivarr and his descendants invaded the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, threatening to crush the fledgling nation of England. These Vikings also laid the foundations of modern society. And new evidence suggests they even saved one country during a mysterious crisis. Filmed in Ultra High Definition, 'Viking Empires' is narrated by leading actor Moe Dunford (Vikings, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Dublin Murders). Filmed at a range of stunning locations in Norway, Ireland, Britain and Icelan, it also features powerful drama re-enactments, including spectacular footage of a Viking longship under sail, and vivid and gritty battle scenes illustrating decisive Viking conflicts. The re-enactments combine with striking VFX reconstructions to open a window in time, unveiling the harsh realities of the Viking Age first hand.