Nobody knows for sure how the top of the stern was constructed on the original ship. That part was missing when the Oseberg ship was excavated in the summer of 1904.

However, on the fore stem the archaeologists found the famous Oseberg curl that finishes up in a dragon's head. The dragon's snout is missing, but it has been reconstructed by comparing it with similar carvings from the finds.

When a dragon has a head, it's logical to think it also had a tail – which explains the ...

"Through thorough studies of the original ship, and by building a replica as close to Viking Age practice as possible in present-day conditions, we have gained new knowledge, both about the original ship and about the Vikings' use of tools, their materials skills and working methods. The Museum believes it is vital that this knowledge is documented and communicated to future generations, and has therefore contributed its professional skills throughout the project and also financed some of the documentation,” said the chairman of the Museum's  board, Eilif Holte, explaining why he personally and the Museum have decided to finance the academic documentation of the Oseberg project.

"We are extremely grateful. Without proper scientific ...

The monk had taken part in a local event. His language skills were quite limited, but being a very friendly man, he was happy to grant Eivind Luthen's request for a blessing. 

"To begin with, he thought I wanted him to bless me, so he prayed for my long and wealthy life. I thanked him as nicely as I could, and asked him to bless the ship instead,” says Eivind with a smile.

And so he did. To conclude his colourful visit, our friend decided to donate some kroner to the project. We thank him warmly – for the blessing and the donation.

Caption:

Blessed: Our friend from far away gave the new Oseberg ...