The Viking raids began in 793 AD, when the Scandinavian Norse explored Europe in search of its oceans and rivers for trade. The Vikings attacked the Christian monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbria. The Vikings were very smart about how and when they attacked. The Vikings used a variety of weapons when fighting, such as swords and axes. The Battle of Stamford Bridge ended the Viking raids. In 793 AD, Vikings raided the Christian monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbri. Northumbri was an English kingdom famous for books, art and treasures. The Vikings attacked in January, burning buildings, stealing treasure, killing monks and terrorizing everyone. In this first attack they did not send many ships. Some Christian church leaders claimed that the Vikings were sent by God to punish them for their mistakes. The Vikings had many useful weapons that they used during the attack. They mainly used swords and axes. The swords would have been passed down from father to son. However, the Vikings also buried the weapons with their support when he died. The Vikings relied on a round wooden shield for protection. They also wore ...