Runes
Runes are the letters of an old alphabet used by Germanic peoples, including the Norse. They were more than just letters - runes were carved into stone, wood, metal, and bone, and were often believed to hold power, mystery, and meaning.
The earliest known runic inscriptions date back to the first few centuries AD, with the oldest runestone, the Svingerud Stone, discovered in Norway and dated to between 50 BC and 275 AD
The oldest rune alphabet is called the Elder Futhark.
Runes may have been inspired by Roman, Greek, or Etruscan alphabets
Runes were adapted to fit Germanic languages—and the tools people had, like knives or chisels (Runes have straight lines because they were meant to be carved, not written in ink!)
Who Used Runes?
The Germanic tribes of northern Europe, including the Norse, Vikings, used runes.
Runes were used in Scandinavia, Iceland, Germany, England, and beyond.
The runes weren’t just for writing messages—they were used in memorial stones, charms, tools, and weapons.
Runes Had Many Purposes
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Writing & Communication
Inscriptions. Carved into objects, such as swords or stones, for identification, marking ownership, or recording information.
Runes were also used to convey messages, short notes, and even longer texts, typically on wood or bone. Sometimes this included legal documents, such as contracts and agreements.
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Spiritual or Magical Use
Divination. Runes were used in divination practices to gain insight into the past, present, and future.
Magic. Runes were believed to possess magical properties and were used in rituals and spells.
Protection. Runes were carved on amulets and charms for protection against harm.
Rituals. Runes were incorporated into various rituals and ceremonies, some people even believed runes had power to heal or curse.
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Memorials
Runestone inscriptions were used to honor those who died, and also commemorated important events, people, and places.
Found throughout Scandinavia, especially in Sweden.