The Viking Age, which spans from the late 8th century to the early 11th century, is characterized by a series of raids and attacks carried out by Norse warriors on various territories across Europe and beyond. This period began notably with the infamous raid on the monastery at Lindisfarne in 793 AD, marking a significant turning point in European history. The Vikings, known for their maritime skills, used longships to navigate rivers and coastlines, allowing them to strike swiftly and retreat before substantial defenses could be mobilized. Their attacks targeted monasteries, towns, and settlements, motivated by a desire for wealth, land, and resources. Key regions affected by Viking raids included the British Isles, France, and parts of the Mediterranean, leading to the establishment of settlements and the influence of Norse culture in these areas. The frequency and intensity of Viking attacks fluctuated throughout this period, with the height of their raids occurring during the 9th century, gradually diminishing by the end of the 10th century as they began to settle in the lands they had previously raided and convert to Christianity, changing the dynamics of their interactions with the regions they once plundered.