Varangian Guard Collection

Campaign to Chersonesos by Vladimir the Great, 1904. Private Collection

Igor's Campaign. Illustration to The Tale of Igor's Campaign, ca 1928. Private Collection

A Scandinavian of the Varangian Guard, 1924. Creator: Herbert Norris
A Scandinavian of the Varangian Guard, 1924. From " Costume & Fashion - The Evolution of European Dress Through the Earlier Ages", by Herbert Norris. [J. M. Dent and Sons Ltd, E. P

Vision. Scene from Visby, 1894. Found in the collection of Nationalmuseum Stockholm

Bracelet from Old Ryazan. Found in the Collection of State Open-air Museum Ryazan Kremlin, Ryazan

Silver pendant (Kolt) from Old Ryazan. Found in the Collection of State Open-air Museum Ryazan Kremlin, Ryazan

Gold pendant (Kolt), 12th-13th century. Artist: Ancient Russian Art
Gold pendant (Kolt), 12th-13th century. Found in the collection of Museum of Russian Art, Minneapolis

Gold pendant (Kolt), 11th-12th century. Artist: Ancient Russian Art
Gold pendant (Kolt), 11th-12th century. Found in the collection of Museum of Russian Art, Minneapolis

Druzhina of Prince Boris (From the Tale of Saints Boris and Gleb). Artist: Anonymous
Druzhina of Prince Boris (From the Tale of Saints Boris and Gleb). Private Collection

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The Varangian Guard was an elite group of Viking warriors who served as the personal bodyguards of the Byzantine emperors in Constantinople. Known for their fierce loyalty and fearsome reputation in battle, these Scandinavian mercenaries were a formidable force within the Byzantine Empire. Clad in chainmail armor and wielding mighty axes, they stood as a symbol of strength and protection for the emperor. The Varangian Guard played a crucial role in defending Constantinople from external threats and internal rebellions, earning them a place in history as one of the most renowned warrior bands of their time. Their presence added to the multicultural fabric of the Byzantine Empire, blending Norse traditions with Greek culture. Despite facing many challenges throughout their existence, including political intrigue and power struggles within the empire, the Varangian Guard remained steadfast in their duty to protect the emperor at all costs. Their legacy lives on as a testament to their bravery and unwavering commitment to serving their rulers with honor and valor.