
09/07/2025
Medieval Norse warfare was more than swords and shields. On Gotland, battlefield excavations have revealed hundreds of tiny, thin-walled glass fragments intermingled with weapon remains. Analysis identified traces of finely powdered lime inside these spheres. According to historical texts like the Heimskringla, warriors hurled these glass “blind bombs” into enemy ranks; upon shattering, they released clouds of caustic powder, temporarily blinding opponents and causing chaos.
Experimental archaeology supports the theory: lime dust irritates eyes and lungs, briefly incapacitating victims—an early form of chemical warfare. This cunning strategy gave Norse fighters critical seconds to launch decisive charges. Not brute force alone, but tactical intelligence and innovation, were hallmarks of Viking warriors.
The discovery reshapes our view of Vikings as sophisticated strategists who integrated psychological and chemical warfare, centuries ahead of their time. Vikings didn’t just overpower enemies physically—they outsmarted them chemically.