Did You Know?
- Lewis Chess Men
The Norse chessmen which were found in a sand dune on Lewis in 1831 are made of walrus ivory.
They date from the 12th century and are apparently the remains of at least 4 complete chess sets.
67 of the chesspieces were acquired by the British Museum in London and 11 pieces were acquired by the National Museum of Scotland (now in the Museum of Scotland).
The chessmen illustrate contemporary Norse characters and the excellent craftsmanship is contrary to the usual view of the Vikings only as raiders and destroyers.
While the Hebrides began to be invaded by Vikings in the 9th century they were also settled extensively by colonists from Norway.
After King Haakon of Norway was defeated by King Alexander III at the Battle of Largs in 1263, the Western Isles passed to the Scottish king in 1266 under the Treaty of Perth.
Where else would you like to go in Scotland?
