Runes

Stone Alphabet

Language has transformed over time and across cultures. Even so, Runes have remained an ancient writing system that is connected to mythology. What makes it unique is the use of characters very different from the alphabet as we know it. Rune symbols were first seen as lines, which made them simpler to carve into stone.

Origin of Runes

The oldest Runes in existence can be traced to about 1600 years ago, according to archaeological dating techniques. It is believed that Runes are based on Latin script.

Myth and Runes

Even though Odin was credited with the existence of Runes, it was another god entirely that is said to have taught this writing system to people. The god Heimdal traveled about teaching children how to use Runes, many of which were found in caves.

Use of Runes

Since Runes writing represented sounds they were ideal for writing and could be used to form words. Many of the Runes we see today were used as inscriptions for monuments. The lines of Runes make them easy to carve into stone, which is ideal for most monuments. They were also used to pass along messages.

There have been countless artifacts with Runic symbols found throughout northern Europe. Many of the Runes were said to be magical; their inscriptions and messages were believed to be both powerful and magical.