Hemdrup Staven

Experience a true copy of an important tool from the Viking Age in Hemdrup.

In August 1949, a remarkable discovery was made east of Hemdrup during a peat excavation. It was a 50 cm long staff that quickly captured the attention of both archaeologists and historians. The find was immediately presented at an archaeological conference at Moesgaard Museum, where it has remained a central part of the exhibition since the 1950s.

This mysterious staff is believed to date back to the 8th century and is a beautiful example of Viking art and symbolism. It is adorned with runes and detailed figures of both people and animals. Over the years, experts have put forward various theories regarding the staff's function – some have speculated that it may have been a shepherd's staff, a messenger's rod, or even one of Denmark’s oldest love poems.

However, the most convincing theory is that the staff played a central role in the magical rituals that were part of Viking beliefs. In Norse paganism, the practice of magic – known as seidr – was common. Seidr was an ecstatic technique that allowed the practitioner to journey outside the body and seek knowledge from other worlds.

The staff was used by a seidr practitioner, a type of sorceress known in Viking times as a völva. These individuals possessed such great magical power that even the mighty Odin might have needed their wisdom and advice.

Today, you can experience a faithful replica of the Hemdrup staff in Løgstør, where you can delve into its fascinating history and be captivated by its mystical connections to Viking magic and belief.