The Nordic Roots Behind Our Viking Cat T-Shirts

Growing up in southwestern Sweden, history was never far away. From rune-covered stones in  the fields to ancient burial sites on school field trips, I was captivated from an early age. That passion eventually led me to become a high school history teacher and although I no longer teach history in the classroom, I’ve found a new way to use my passion for history — through design. 

The Viking Runestone Near My Home

Just ten minutes from my home stands a runestone that has likely remained in its place for over a thousand years. The inscription speaks of loyalty, loss and friendship — themes that resonate in human lives now just as they did when the stone was raised. I was especially touched when the owner of the house next to the runestone told me he and his wife were married beside it more than 40 years ago. To me, that moment reflected what these stones truly are: not just remnants of the past, but markers of continuity, meaning, and love — across generations. 

Cats and Vikings: A True Story

While studying runestones like this one, you get a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in that place, in that time — their families, their traditions, even their companions. Among those companions were cats. Far from being just pets, cats held a special place in Norse society. They protected food stores from mice, were cherished members of households, and even held symbolic and spiritual significance. In Norse mythology, the goddess Freya — associated with love, fertility, and war — drove a chariot pulled by two mighty cats. These animals were respected, useful, and even divine. 

A Tribute to Cats Through the Ages

That rich legacy is part of what makes combining Viking themes with feline imagery so meaningful to me. It’s not just playful — it’s rooted in a thousand years of history. Superior Creatures — and especially my Viking cat t-shirt designs — are therefore not only a tribute to our beloved cats today, or to my Norse ancestors (at least geographically), but also to all the cats who have been part of people’s lives over the past thousand years.

Curious for More? Here’s What’s Coming

In future posts, I’ll explore more Viking-age curiosities — including just how cats earned their place in Norse homes and hearts. I’ll also go more into my Norse mythology cat designs and the inspiration behind them. Until then: may your cat rule your home like Freya ruled the skies.