Misconceptions abound about Vikings. They are often depicted as bloodthirsty, unwashed warriors with winged helmets. But that's a poor picture based largely on Viking portrayals in the 19th century, when they featured in European art either as romantic heroes or exotic savages. The real Vikings, however, were not just the stuff of legend — and they didn't have wings or horns on their helmets. Here, we debunk seven myths about the Vikings.
Related: Hårby Valkyrie: A 1,200-year-old gold Viking Age woman sporting a sword, shield and ponytail
