Lindisfarne Priory

The island lies off the northeast Northumbrian coast of England. It was considered to be one of the most sacred places of pilgrimage in Britain at that time. 

 

English monasteries were known for their treasures including famous books, manuscripts and art; they were easy targets for the Vikings to loot as they were poorly guarded. 

 

The Viking raid was quick and devastating. Monks that interfered or tried to stop the raid were cut down where they stood or drowned in the sea; some were also taken as slaves. 

 

The Vikings loaded their longships with jewels, gold, silver, art and holy relics, as well as slaves. The ships were so heavily laden, there was no room to take their livestock back to Scandinavia, so they were slaughtered. 

 

Having already caused mass devastation to the island, they were to leave it in ruins. Before setting sail for Scandinavia, they set fire to the island and all of its buildings. Today the monastery lies in ruins. 

 

The Vikings had arrived on British soil and would return time and again, forming many settlements here, but also ravaging the country badly..