Vyborg is a fortress that everyone must see

If you want to touch the history of the Leningrad region, then you just need to visit the old city, which was founded by the Swedes, called Vyborg. The fortress, which stands there, has preserved the medieval atmosphere. And to see it, you do not need to leave the country's borders. Many travelers like the historical places that St. Petersburg offers. Vyborg can also become a place for a wonderful holiday, which can be combined with educational excursions. The fortress was in the possession of the Swedes until the 18th century, after that it was controlled by Russia until the beginning of the revolutionary times. In fact, the fortress is relatively small, but it is well built and has been used for many centuries to defend the city and the whole area. The castle is a popular place for tourists. But do not confuse this fortress in the guidebooks with the theater called "The Holy Fortress" (Vyborg). This place of interest, by the way, is also worth a visit during your stay in the city.

History of the fortress

The construction of this castle at the end of the 13th century was undertaken by the Swedes after the Karelian settlement that was located in the given territory was ravaged. It was this place that was chosen not by chance, since it gives an opportunity to control the river. At the end of the XIII - beginning of the XVI century the Novgorodians made unsuccessful attempts to seize the fortress.

Due to the fact that there was a constant external threat, the building was periodically improved. So, over time, was built the tower of Olaf, and in the XV century was provided with magnificent interior decoration and built additional fortifications. In 1710 the troops, commanded by Peter the First, took the castle (as in Vyborg as a whole). Fortress during the siege suffered destruction, and when it began to restore, then changed the interior. Two centuries later the building again tried to improve, but then the changes touched on internal planning. There was no arched vault that replaced the beams. In addition, a number of new windows have been added. After the revolutionary events, the fortress was lost, and it was returned only after World War II.

The structure of the castle

It should be noted that the territory on the island where the fortress is located is small, but nevertheless there are a large number of buildings on it. The wall, which strengthens the coast, meets on the way to the castle. Further, when a number of gates are passed, the visitor enters the first courtyard. If you get into the rows of internal fortifications, you can find a passageway, which allows you to bypass the castle around. Some buildings were erected relatively recently, apparently, when the fortress was already captured.

Entertainment inside the castle

In the territory of the upper courtyard, as a rule, children's attractions are located. For example, the guys here can do archery, participate in the driving roundelays. Also there is a small shop where armor and weapons are bought. In the castle, at first glance, it is not so easy to deal with the reconstruction of medieval European events, because at that time the building was not captured, like Vyborg. Fortress nevertheless collects fans of such entertainment, which hold grandiose tournaments. And if we talk about activities involved in historical reconstruction, then they gather here as separate clubs and organizations. Participants compete in armor in sword fighting, experienced riders participate in fights. Entertainment in Vyborg is good in the spring, when bad weather interferes with activities.

Olaf Tower

This building is the heart of the fortress, and the whole city. This place is proud of Vyborg. The fortress is also known from the photographs of the tower of Olaf, towering over the city for as much as forty-eight meters. A special atmosphere is present in this place, because the fire destroyed internal structures, so the rise is carried out with the help of wooden forests. The passage is often narrow and sometimes hangs over an empty spot. If it's hard for you to climb, you can sit halfway on the bench. Stay in Vyborg, be sure to visit the tower of Olaf, because it offers a unique view of Vyborg.

Museums

Among other things, you can look at the exposition of two museums - local history and fortress history. Each of them is interesting in its own way. In the museum of the fortress you will learn a lot about the Russian-Swedish confrontation and historical periods in which this region developed. In the local history you will find a simple and laconic exposition with a good design. The second museum will be interesting for those who want to learn more about the nature of the Karelian Isthmus.

How to get there and what to bring?

On the territory of the castle food is not for sale, but it is located in the central part of the city, so that it is easy to find a place where you can have a snack. There is a restaurant not far from the site on which there is a fortress in Vyborg. The name of the institution is "Round Tower". Here you will be pleased with tasty food and interesting entertainments.

It is also worth noting that the cost of admission tickets to the tower and museums is 100 rubles.

Many are interested in how to come to the fortress in Vyborg. You will not need the address, since it is located in the very center of the city. Be sure to dress warmly, because at the altitude the piercing wind almost always blows.

If the starting point is St. Petersburg, Vyborg (its index) is on the turn from M10 to the Leningrad Highway.

In addition, the ancient castle can be reached by train or bus, which depart from the city's railway stations in St. Petersburg.