The Norman conquest of England in 1066 is well known but this was not the only region of Christendom to witness the military prowess of the Normans. From Ireland to Syria, Norman knights and warlords fought as mercenaries, carved out principalities and forged kingdoms. In doing so they transformed the political, social and religious cultures of those they conquered. Through illustrated lectures using documentary, artistic and archaeological sources, explore why and how the Normans earned a reputation for excellence in warfare, and eagerness for wealth and lands. We will look at the 'Viking' origins of 'Normandy' and its early history, the Norman impact on Southern Italy, and their involvement on the fringes of Christendom (Spain, Wales, Scotland and Ireland), and in the early crusades. The story of the Normans is a fascinating one that goes far beyond 1066 and all that. Lecture style with question and answer time.