Religion in Europe in 500 AD was a complex tapestry woven with various beliefs, traditions, and practices. Christianity, paganism, and remnants of the old Roman religions played significant roles, each with their own influence, power, and geographic presence.

Christianity, which had gradually gained traction since its inception in the 1st century, emerged as a formidable force in Europe by 500 AD. The adoption of Christianity as the state religion of the Roman Empire under Emperor Constantine in the 4th century had a profound impact on its spread. The early Christian Church, centered in Rome, had established a hierarchical structure, with the Bishop of Rome holding a prominent position. This provided a strong foundation for the expansion of Christianity throughout the empire.

By 500 AD, Christianity had become the dominant religion in many regions, particularly in the western and southern parts of Europe. The influence of the Church extended beyond spiritual matters; it wielded significant political and social power, often intertwined with secular authorities. Monasteries and churches dotted the landscape, serving as centers of religious life, education, and charity. Prominent figures such as St. Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, and St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, emerged during this period, contributing to the development and dissemination of Christian theology.

Despite the growing influence of Christianity, paganism persisted in various forms across Europe. Pagan beliefs, often deeply rooted in local customs and traditions, remained resilient in rural areas and among certain tribes. These indigenous religions encompassed a multitude of gods, goddesses, and nature spirits, reflecting a deep connection with the natural world. Practices such as animal sacrifices, seasonal festivals, and divination rituals played central roles in pagan worship.

Paganism was particularly prevalent in the northern and eastern regions of Europe, where Germanic and Celtic tribes held sway. The Germanic tribes, including the Saxons, Franks, and Goths, retained their pagan beliefs alongside the growing influence of Christianity. The pagan religions of these tribes were characterized by a reverence for ancestral spirits, nature deities, and warrior cults. The stories and myths of these ancient gods and heroes were passed down through oral tradition and would later be recorded in the Eddas and sagas.

In the British Isles, Celtic paganism was deeply ingrained in the religious practices of the inhabitants. Druids, the priestly class of the Celts, played vital roles in conducting religious ceremonies, maintaining oral traditions, and serving as advisors to tribal leaders. Stone circles, such as Stonehenge, stood as testament to the spiritual significance of the land and the alignment with celestial events.

Alongside Christianity and paganism, remnants of the old Roman religions persisted in Europe. The Romans had spread their religious beliefs and practices across their vast empire, and even as the empire declined, traces of their religion endured. The worship of traditional Roman gods and goddesses, such as Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, continued in certain pockets, often among the elite and in urban centers. However, the once-robust Roman priesthood had weakened, and the religious rituals were increasingly intertwined with political symbolism.