Norse people ,Irish monks, Romans?The text explains that some believe that before the Norse colonization of Iceland, the island was inhabited by Irish monks (Papar) or even Romans. However, no solid archaeological evidence of settlement prior to the 9th century has been found, except for Roman coins and pottery.
The text describes domestic artifacts of iron, stone, and wood found on old farms. Many were made from local materials and changed little over the centuries. Among the objects found include medieval keys, iron and stone oil lamps, narrow shovels for digging and sharpening stones used at different times.
The text explains the importance of the horse in Iceland for transportation and agricultural work, as well as as a status symbol. Various equestrian equipment found is described, such as stirrups, spurs, buckles and bridle ornaments, many made of iron.
Settlers used tools such as millstones to grind grain, soapstone pots and pans (a heat-resistant stone), and shells as cooking utensils. They also used slate baking plates and spits to cook meat over a fire.
Churches in Iceland were built with ornate wood and doors decorated with large iron rings, often made locally. These rings, some with silver rosettes and engravings, date from around 1200 AD, with Romanesque and Gothic style designs.
Textile production in Iceland used equipment such as stone spindles and loom weights, essential tools for spinning wool and producing vaðmál (cloth). These instruments, used since the first years of colonization, remained almost unchanged until the 20th century.
In the 14th century, fishing grew rapidly in Iceland, prompting the development of ports and fishing stations. Hooks were used for sharks, valued for their liver, as well as harpoons for seals, whose fats were exported. Whale ribs were also used as skids for boats and stone sinkers for fishing lines.
The oldest textile fragments from Iceland are made from vaðmál, a woven woolen fabric, used for most clothing. Although knitting arrived in the 16th century, a medieval mitten made with the needle rolling technique, an ancient method, has been found. This technique persisted into the 20th century to make milk sieves. Bone and bronze pins, sewn shoes, and bronze and sewing needles have also been found.
Bishop Guðbrandur Portáksson of Hólar was a prominent cultural leader known for his editorial work and his appreciation of fine objects. Among the items attributed to him are a bowl of food, a travel bag with silver cutlery, a Belgian beer jug from 1583, and a small ivory goblet. Also noteworthy are brass accessories from a Bible bound in 1623 and a chest carved by him, passed down in his family.
In the Middle Ages, piety and religious practices were fundamental in society, with the Church present in all aspects of life. People used crosses and talismans for protection and went on pilgrimages in search of salvation. Although the Reformation prohibited the veneration of images, some religious objects, such as crucifixes and talismans carved from bones, were still in use. In addition, wealthy families donated wedding pews to churches, such as the carved pew in Skarð Church.
r3.jpg)
