A remarkable discovery from the Viking Age has been made north of Aarhus, Denmark. A silver hoard consisting of seven arm rings was unearthed by an archaeology student near Elsted. The hoard has been evaluated by both Danish and international experts. These arm rings, which were historically used as currency, date back to the early Viking Age around the 8th century.
Kasper H. Andersen, a Ph.D. and historian at Moesgaard Museum, describes the find as an extraordinary discovery that connects Aarhus to both Eastern Europe and the British Isles. The design of the jewelry suggests links to regions such as Russia, Ukraine, South Scandinavia, Ireland, and England. This indicates Aarhus as a central city within the Vikings’ extensive trade network, which spanned from the North Atlantic to Asia.
The seven arm rings, which collectively weigh about half a kilogram, will be displayed at Moesgaard Museum before being transferred to the National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) as “danefæ.” The term “danefæ” refers to national treasures in Denmark—items that are deemed important to the nation’s cultural heritage. This discovery emphasizes Aarhus’s role as a hub in the Viking world, adding to our understanding of the city’s historical significance.
Additionally, Aarhus Municipality and Moesgaard Museum have plans to establish a new Viking museum at Bispetorvet in Aarhus. If the project receives approval from the Aarhus City Council, the museum is expected to open in 2032. Before its opening, archaeological excavations and construction of the museum building are planned to begin, possibly as early as 2028.