More about the NVG
It is the 12th Century,
we are Viking mercenaries,
we work for the Byzantines,
they call themselves Romans,
but they speak Greek,
and that’s just the beginning!
The New Varangian Guard are a dedicated group re-enacting the fascinating middle period of the Byzantine Empire and surrounding cultures through combat, arts and sciences.
After the fall of the Western Empire in Rome, the Roman Empire in the East carried on, though due to the geographic and cultural location, the language spoken gradually changed to Greek.
In the period we aim to reconstruct, the Empire is on a military and economic high following the reign of the Emperor Basil II “The Bulgar Slayer”. He had recognised the ferocity and honour of the Vikings whom he had fought along with their Rus allies from the area of modern day Kiev.
Thus he raised the Varangian Guard as a personal bodyguard – fierce axe wielding pagans to defend the body and state of “God’s representative on Earth”, feared and respected by friends and enemies alike, they were also known as “the Emperor’s wine-bags” for their heroic ability to carouse!
As a living history group we aim to experience at least some of the flavour of this complex era, focusing on life in Europe, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Whether at public or private events this provides a unique opportunity to experience another time, both in battle and at social events.
We study and train in both martial and craft skills to attain the highest degree of authenticity possible in action and object and with branches Australia-wide, and overseas, it brings together many diverse individuals in a common interest.
Combat SkillsSword, Spear, Axe and more We have men and women attend training every week to learn techniques from period manuscripts and swordsmanship as a martial art. We practice to maintain rigorous safety standards and we also make all the armour ourselves. If sword does not appeal to you, why not try axe or spear. We encourage all combat skills in the branch. |
Textile CraftSewing, Weaving, Embroidery and more From experts to complete beginners, even if you have never sewn a stitch before you can get involved. We encourage our members to learn new skills from each other and share their knowledge and experiences. We also run workshops as needed to help teach targeted skills from more experienced members. Learn to sew by hand or by machine using period patterns, learn to tablet weave, lucet, embroider and most of all have fun. |
Activities for everyone
Here is a selection of some of the activities our members have the opportunity to enjoy within the NVG: Archery, Blacksmithing, Brewing, Calligraphy, Camping, Carving, Cooking, Dance, Embroidery, Etching, Fletching, Forge Work, Games, Illumination, Jewellery Making, Leatherwork, Lucet, Music, Naalbinding, Painting, Sewing, Socialising, Spinning, Swordsmanship, Tablet Weaving, Weaving, Woodwork
