BattlefieldsBattle of Tarbat 1040
Early Medieval

Battle of Tarbat 1040

1040
Ross-shire, Scotland
Also known as: Thorfinn defeats Moddan at Tarbat · Norse-Moray battle 1040
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Naval Engagement
Location
Ross-shire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scotland (Moddan)
Forces
Scotland: c.800–1,500. Naval engagement.
VS
Victor
Norse (Thorfinn the Mighty)
Forces
Thorfinn (Norse): c.800–1,500
Outcome
Thorfinn's fleet destroyed Scottish force at Tarbat Ness
The Battle

History & Significance

Thorfinn the Mighty — Earl of Orkney and grandson of Malcolm II — fought a sea battle off Tarbat Ness at the entrance to the Cromarty Firth against a Scottish force under Moddan. The Orkneyinga Saga records the battle. Thorfinn's victory extended Norse control of the sea lanes around the Moray Firth and demonstrated his naval supremacy in the waters between Orkney and mainland Scotland.

Casualties & Losses

Moddan and his force defeated

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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