Up Helly Aa in pictures: 16 mesmerising images from the historic Shetland celebration

Last night in Lerwick, Shetland’s Norse heritage was celebrated in a breath-taking fire display.

Shetland celebrated their Norse heritage last night as they set alight a galley ship in Lerwick’s Up Helly Aa.

Over a thousand participants, dressed in Viking helmets and shields, took their flamed torches through the streets following their leader, the Guizer Jarl.

The Guizer Jarl’s galley boat is then set on fire is an extraordinary display, an echo of the cremations of Norse leaders.

Read more about the history of Up Helly Aa right here.

Here are 16 incredible images of last night’s historic celebration.

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