Mead Drinking Horn: History & Modern Use
Mead Drinking Horn
Mead drinking horns have a rich heritage tied to feasting, celebrations, and tradition, dating back to the grand halls of Viking warriors and continuing through modern-day Norse festivals and Renaissance fairs. But what makes the Viking drinking horn so special? Why did Norsemen choose to drink mead from horn-shaped cups instead of using metal or ceramic vessels?
In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and craftsmanship of drinking horns for mead, uncovering why they remain a beloved part of tradition today. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a reenactment participant, or simply someone who enjoys a traditional mead drinking experience, you'll discover why a mead horn cup is far more than just a drinking vessel—it's a tangible piece of history.
We have posted a more academic style blog post with the FULL history and significance behind drinking horns.
[See the full history from the viking age here]
1. The History of Mead Drinking Horns
The tradition of drinking from horns stretches back thousands of years, long before the Viking Age. Archaeologists have unearthed drinking horns in Celtic, Germanic, and Scandinavian burial sites, proving that these vessels were not only abundant but also highly valued.
One of the earliest known examples of drinking horns for mead dates back to 500 BCE with the Scythians, a nomadic people from the Eurasian steppes. Much like the Vikings, these warriors drank fermented beverages from large, curved horns—often adorned with intricate metal engravings and decorative elements. Many of them were also made of glass instead of livestock horn.
Over time, authentic mead horns became a key feature of Norse culture. Viking chieftains, warriors, and merchants carried mead horn cups for their mead and ale, using them during feasts, religious rituals, and social gatherings. The famous Gallehus Horns, discovered in Denmark, serve as a stunning example of medieval mead drinking vessels, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and deep significance of the Viking horn mug in early Scandinavian society.
2. Mead Drinking Horns in Viking Culture
Vikings didn’t use drinking horns just for practicality—these vessels carried deep symbolic meaning. A viking drinking horn was often associated with power, hospitality, and even the gods themselves.
Feasting and Mead Halls
In Viking society, the mead hall was the heart of every settlement. This was where warriors, kings, and their followers gathered for feasting, storytelling, and celebration. Passing around a mead horn cup reinforced loyalty, camaraderie, and unity, making it an essential part of traditional mead drinking.
Multiple written sources from the viking age show mead horns connected to feasting and hospitality such as, Egils saga, Grímnismál, Lokasenna, Beowulf and more.
Norse Mythology and the Mead of Poetry
One of the most well-known references to drinking horns for mead in Norse mythology is the legend of the Mead of Poetry. According to the myth as told in the Skáldskaparmál section of the Prose Edda, Odin, the Allfather, stole this enchanted mead from the giants, gaining both wisdom and poetic abilities. Many Vikings believed that drinking mead from an authentic mead horn connected them to Odin’s divine knowledge and power.
We have a drinking horn inspired by this tale of Odins mead of poetry colored with yellow and red resin to symbolize the honey mixed with the blood of Kvasir as told in the myth.
Ceremonial and Ritual Use
Beyond everyday drinking, medieval mead drinking vessels played an essential role in rituals and ceremonies. During weddings, sacrificial offerings (blóts), and funerals, horn tankards filled with mead or ale were raised to honor the gods and fallen warriors.
A fe histrical accounts that this was done in is Sigrdrífumál, Harald Fairhair's Saga, Hákonar saga Góða and more.
3. How Mead Drinking Horns Are Made
Not all drinking horns for mead are created equal! Authentic mead horns were traditionally crafted from natural ox or goat or even the extinct aurochs horns, meticulously cleaned, shaped, and sometimes with a rim and terminal placed on like some of the historical replicas we carry.
In addition, many of our horns are coated with resin or oil & conditioner to prevent a gamey taste and leaks. Here is a guide if you want to make your own horn.
Step-by-Step Crafting of a Mead Horn Cup
Selection of Horn:
Historically, Viking drinking horns were made from cattle, oxen, goat or aurochs horns. The natural curve and size of the horn influenced both its capacity and aesthetic appeal.
Cleaning and Boiling:
After sourcing the horn, it was thoroughly cleaned and boiled to remove any remaining inner tissue.
Shaping and Polishing:
Depending on the desired finish, the horn was either polished to a high-gloss shine or left with a more rugged texture for a traditional mead drinking appearance.
Engraving and Personalization:
Many Norse mead horns were intricately engraved with runes, Norse symbols, or elaborate patterns, making each horn tankard unique to its owner.
Lining for Modern Use:
While medieval mead drinking vessels were unlined, modern versions are often coated with food-safe resin to prevent liquid absorption and enhance durability. We strongly reccomend this and carry a couple styles of this on our shop.
4. How to Use and Maintain a Mead Drinking Horn
If you own a hand-carved Viking drinking horn, proper maintenance is key to ensuring it lasts for years. Follow these essential care tips to keep your mead horn cup in top condition:
✅ Do’s:
✔ Rinse with lukewarm water both before and after use.
✔ Use mild soap for cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals.
✔ Store in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking.
✔ If your authentic mead horn is lined with resin, avoid using metal utensils that could scratch the interior.
❌ Don’ts:
✖ Do not pour boiling liquids into the Norse mead horn, as extreme heat can warp its shape.
✖ Never put your horn in the dishwasher.
✖ Do not leave mead sitting in your Viking horn mug for long periods—always clean it after use.
5. Mead Drinking Horns in Modern Culture
Even though centuries have passed since the Viking Age, mead drinking horns remain popular today. Drinking mead from a horn continues to symbolize heritage and tradition at medieval mead drinking vessels events and Viking reenactments.
Where Are Drinking Horns Used Today?
🔹 Renaissance fairs and Viking reenactments
🔹 Pagan and Norse festivals such as Blots
🔹 Mead halls and medieval-themed restaurants
🔹 Weddings and special events celebrating Viking heritage
Many modern breweries and mead-makers now offer authentic mead horns as collectible pieces, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite drinking horns for mead just as the Vikings once did.
Conclusion: A Tradition That Stands the Test of Time
The mead drinking horn is more than just a cup—it’s a symbol of history, culture, and tradition. Whether you're raising a Viking horn mug in a feast hall, enjoying traditional mead drinking at a festival, or simply sipping mead at home, using an authentic mead horn connects you to centuries of Norse heritage.
Want to own your own Viking drinking horn? Explore our collection of hand-carved drinking horns today!