Archaeological excavations in the High Street, Wood Quay and Temple Bar areas of Dublin give us a good idea of what everyday life was like in Viking Dublin.
Vikings lived in rectangular houses which had thatched roofs. There was a doorway at either end of the house and a fireplace in the centre. Raised bedding areas were placed either side of the fire.
Well-off Viking women wore long woollen dresses with a woollen or linen underdress beneath. A shawl was worn outside. Clothes were fastened with brooches. A well-off Viking man wore a shirt and trousers. A simple tunic was worn over the shirt. Cloaks were worn outside or in cooler weather and could be made from wool, or animal hides.
Many pieces of jewellerywere found in the excavations also. Amber, glass and silver were used to make necklaces, earrings and brooches. Pins carved from bone were also found. They may have been used in the hair or to fasten clothes.