Runes are the letters in a set of related alphabets, known as runic rows, runic alphabets or futharks (cf. futhark vs runic alphabet), native to the Germanic peoples.

After the arrival of Christianity in Scandinavia, the Runic alphabet was Latinised and was used occasionally, mainly for decoration, until 1850. They are also known as futhork.

Feb 28, 2017 · There are about 3,500 known runic inscriptions in Scandinavia (2,400 in Sweden, 450 in Denmark and only about 140 in Norway). Though gray and weathered now, runestones were once …

Jun 26, 2025 · This guide explores the origins, types, meanings, and modern relevance of ancient Nordic runes, offering insights into their historical and mystical significance.

May 15, 2023 · While the runic alphabet remained pretty similar for centuries, each Germanic tribe that used the runes did so in their native language. Since the runic symbols represented things such as a …

Uncover the significance of runic alphabets, ancient Germanic writing systems used from the 2nd century BC to the 13th century AD. Explore the variations, including Teutonic, Anglo-Saxon, and …

Jan 7, 2026 · Runic alphabet, writing system of uncertain origin used by Germanic peoples of northern Europe, Britain, Scandinavia, and Iceland from about the 3rd century to the 16th or 17th century ad.

Jun 19, 2018 · Shapes of runes may vary, as may order, usage, medium, and layout, resulting from, for example, regional, social or chronological differences. There is thus no such thing as a standardised …

Yet there were multiple runic alphabets that were prevalent in different parts of the Germanic world during different periods. The only runic alphabet used by the Norse in the Viking Age is known as the …

Here are some theories about the origins of runes: The alphabet was probably created independently rather than evolving from another alphabet. Runic writing was probably first used in southern Europe …