tour 4 of 10
Sutton Hoo
Sword
The most important weapon in Anglo-Saxon times was the sword,
which was often passed down from father to son. Warriors were
buried with their swords beside them. This one was made by a
master-craftsman, and has a pommel covered in gold and garnets.
The shield was next in importance. The wood on this one rotted
away, so it has been built again (reconstructed) recently, but the
gold decorations are the same. Can you see the bird of prey, and
the thin-looking dragon? Both these animals meant strength and
power to the Anglo-Saxons.