The Viking Age began in Northern Europe around 793 AD, marked by the notorious raid on the Lindisfarne monastery in England. This period, lasting until approximately 1066 AD, was characterized by Norse seafarers and warriors, known as Vikings, exploring, trading, and raiding across Europe, Asia, and the North Atlantic. The Vikings established settlements and influenced various regions through their exploration, leading to significant cultural exchanges and trade connections. The expansion during the Viking Age reshaped historical landscapes, influencing language, culture, and politics in the areas they encountered, and it ultimately played a crucial role in Medieval European history.