Contrary to many popular depictions of Vikings, there is no good evidence that they ever wore horned helmets. The notion that Viking helmets were adorned with horns likely comes from 19th century representations of Vikings, such as opera costumes. Many historians also note that horned helmets just don't make much sense, because the horns could easily get tangled in foliage or could be grabbed by an enemy soldier.
More about the Vikings:
- There is strong evidence that the Vikings were concerned about personal hygiene and grooming, because archaeologists have found several types of Viking grooming equipment.
- Examinations of ancient Nordic skulls reveal fewer differences in facial structure between the sexes than there are in modern times. Investigators have had difficulty differentiating between male and female skulls.
- There is evidence that horned helmets might have been worn as ceremonial garb by Nordic priests.