Norse Greenland: Map & History
The Norse settlement of North America, including Greenland, began in the late 10th century AD and lasted for about 500 years.
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The Norse settlement of North America, including Greenland, began in the late 10th century AD and lasted for about 500 years. Further west, the evidence is more limited. Only one Canadian settlement has been confirmed: L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland. There is evidence of Norse activity in other parts of Canada, but no trace of the long-term farming colonies found in Greenland. In the present-day United States, there are no confirmed remains. Claimed US discoveries are hoaxes or mistaken identifications.
Norse Greenland Map Over Time
Dated world maps on which Norse Greenland appears, with the other states of the time.
Norse Greenland Timeline
Key historical inflections from foundation to peak territorial expansion
Expansion to peak recorded area of 26,128 km² in 1172 CE.
Norse Greenland: Frequently Asked Questions
When did Norse Greenland exist?
Norse Greenland is dated to 1072 CE – 1384 CE, in the High & Late Middle Ages era.
How large was Norse Greenland at its peak?
At its peak in 1172 AD Norse Greenland covered about 26,128 km².
How did the map of Norse Greenland change over time?
Norse Greenland appears on 2 dated world maps in the atlas, from 1100 CE to 1200 CE. Each shows its borders in that year next to the other states of the time.
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