The Viking Axe Symbol – History And Meaning

The Viking Axe is one of the most well known and appreciated Viking weapons. It is also a popular Viking symbol that’s known to represent bravery, power and strength.

If you want to learn more about the Viking Axe symbol, read on to find out the meaning, history, and significance of this Viking symbol.

The Viking Axe Symbol – History And Meaning

The Axe that was used by warriors then was shaped differently from the axes in use today. The Viking Axe came in different sizes, from the small hand axes to the larger battle-axes with thinner blades that are often seen in illustrations and films depicting Viking warriors. 

The early axes were easy to make, so most warriors own more than one axe.  The old Viking axe also had a single cutting edge with its bottom blade shaped like a hook. This design had a better grip which was useful in battle. 

Viking Axe History

The Viking Axe is one of the most important finds from the Viking Age, particularly the one found in a grave in the Danish village of Mammen.

This axe was made of iron with silver inlay and adorned in the so-called Mammen style that was popular in the 900s until around 1000. This axe featured designs that represented both Christian and pagan beliefs. 

One part of this ancient axe features a tree, which can either be the Christian Tree of Life or the pagan tree, Yggdrasil. Another side of the axe has an animal figure, believed to be the Phoenix or the rooster who lives in Valhalla called Gullinkambi (Old Norse “golden comb”). 

In Norse mythology, Gullinkambi is perched on top of the Yggdrasil. Every morning, Gullinkambi wakes the Viking warriors, and it is believed that it will grow at the beginning of Ragnarök or the end of the world. 

Meanwhile, the Phoenix is a Christian mythological animal and a known symbol of rebirth. 

Viking Axe Symbol

A distinct feature of the Viking Axe is that it is in a single bit form, which makes it easier to use during battles. The axe was a handy tool for Vikings that did not require as much time to make. Yet it is one of the sturdiest and most useful weapons of the warriors in battle.  

It is said that every Viking owned an axe since childhood because apart from being a weapon the axe was also used in farms and homesteads. Everyone during the Viking Age had an axe that was used for various purposes—from intimidating invaders to chopping wood.

The axe, even beyond the Viking age, had always been a tool that they relied on for its many uses, durability and strength.

Viking Axe Symbol Meaning

The axe has always been a formidable symbol of strength and bravery. From the 9th century up to the modern times, the Viking Axe was either carried, kept or worn as a pendant, a symbol that meant victory in all pursuits. 

In Norse mythology, military apparels always featured an axe because it signifies bravery and power. For the Vikings, the axe was a tool, a weapon and protection from evil spirits. 

Every Viking carried with him similar protection from evil spirits, which also helped him win in battle and return to his tribe with his shield and not on it.

Today, the Viking Axe may not be in every household or something that every Norse mythology fan carried, but it is a favourite design in accessories, art, crafts and apparel. Items with the Viking Axe are treated with utmost care because of what it symbolizes.

The Viking Axe in any form is believed to be available only to the brave and strong, who are always prepared to face all obstacles that arise in their path.