Highland Park Ragnvald

The one indisputable fact about the Viking is that they were by far the most accomplished travellers of their time, often sailing huge distances to discover new lands to bring home a variety of unusual goods from faraway nations. A major key to success of these Viking raids was the iconic longship.

Ingeniously crafted to enter the unknown of a long ocean voyage, the longship provided to be the perfect vesel to master the high seas, established trade routes as far away as Pakistan, India, China and the Middle East. The most famous and pioneering of all Vikings was Earl Ragnvald of Orkney. Originally hailing from Norway, Ragnvald, nephew of Earl Magnus, was granted the title of Earl in around 1129.

Earl Ragnvald was a noted sailor and merchant warrior, his expeditions bringing fabrics, exotic spices and precious stones from across Europe and the Middle East. In 1135, Ragnvald travelled to Orkney from Norway with King Harald to confront the troublesome Paul Haakonsson, self-imposed ruler of the Isles.

A mighty battle took place for the Orkney Islands, ultimately resulting in Ragnvald taking charge over the lands. Instrumental in bringing change to the islands, Ragnvald built the majestic SSt Magnus Cathedral as a fitting tribute to his uncle, which still stands as a major builing of both religious and historic importance in Orkney today.

Presented in a beautifully crafted hardwood box.