Gone Medieval15 Apr 2025

Ibn Fadlan: An Arab Among Vikings

**This podcast contains descriptions of sexual violence, enslavement and human sacrifice**

"I have never seen more perfect physical specimens, tall as date palms, blond and ruddy. Each man were tattooed with dark-green figures from fingernails to neck."

These are the first observations of Vikings from the Arab traveler and diplomat Ibn Fadlan.

Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Thorir Jonsson Hraundal to explore Ibn Fadlan's extraordinary observations of a Viking ship burial during his journey to the Volga Bulgars in 921 CE. From the initial preparation of the body to the final emotionally and culturally charged moments of cremation, Ibn Fadlan provides a rare and vivid description that offers unparalleled insights into Viking funerary practices. This riveting account paints a picture of ritual, belief, and cultural intersection.

The Rise of the Vikings

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0MNLrJxc5ri920VjZ2mqKv

The Viking Age: New Discoveries

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0aChBL6wP2qPpSz5al8tp2

Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. It was edited by Amy Haddow, the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.

All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.

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