If you want to touch the storyLeningrad region, then you just need to visit the old city, which was founded by the Swedes, called Vyborg. The fortress that stands there, has retained the medieval atmosphere. Moreover, to see it, you do not need to leave the borders of the country. Many travelers like the historical sites that St. Petersburg offers. Vyborg can also become a place of wonderful rest, which can be combined with informative excursions. The fortress until the XVIII century was in the possession of the Swedes, 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 centuries to defend the city and the whole area. The castle is a popular destination for tourists. But do not confuse this fortress with a theater called “The Holy Fortress” (Vyborg) in the guidebooks. This landmark, 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 XIII century tookeven the Swedes after the Karelian settlement, which was located in this territory, was devastated. This place was chosen by chance, as it gives the opportunity to control the river. At the end of the 13th and the beginning of the 16th centuries, the Novgorodians made unsuccessful attempts to seize the fortress.
Due to the fact that there was a permanent externalthe threat, the building has been refined periodically. So, over time, the Olaf tower was erected, and already in the XV century, magnificent interior decoration was provided and additional fortifications were built. In 1710, the troops commanded by Peter the Great took the castle (as well as the whole Vyborg). The fortress during the siege suffered destruction, and when it was begun to be restored, they changed the interior. Two centuries later, the building was again attempted to be improved, but then the changes affected internal planning. There was no arched vault, which replaced the beams. In addition, added a number of new windows. After the revolutionary events, the fortress was lost, and returned it only after the Second World War.
Castle structure
It should be noted that the territory on the island, wherethe fortress is located, is small, but nevertheless there are a large number of buildings on it. The wall, strengthening the coast, meets on the way to the castle. Further, when the row of gates is passed, the visitor gets to the first courtyard. If you get into the ranks of the internal fortifications, you can find the place of the passage, which allows you to bypass the castle around. Some buildings were built relatively recently, apparently, when the fortress was already captured.
Fun inside the castle
In the upper courtyard, as a rule,children's attractions are located. For example, guys here can do archery, take part in driving round dances. Also there is a small shop where they buy armor and weapons. In the castle, at first glance, it is not so easy to engage in the reconstruction of medieval European events, because at that time the building was not captured, as was Vyborg. The fortress nevertheless gathers lovers of such entertainment, which hold grand tournaments. And if we talk about the activities of those who are fond of historical reconstruction, they are going to separate clubs and organizations here. Participants compete in armor fighting with swords, experienced riders participate in fights. Entertainment in Vyborg is good in spring when bad weather doesn’t interfere with events.
Olaf Tower
This building is the heart of the fortress, andthe whole city. This place is proud Vyborg. The fortress is also known for photographs of the tower of Olaf, towering over the city by as much as forty-eight meters. The special atmosphere is present in this place due to the fact that the fire destroyed the internal structures, because the ascent is carried out using wooden forests. The passage is often narrow and sometimes hangs over the empty space. If it is difficult for you to climb, you can sit halfway on the bench. Staying in Vyborg, be sure to visit the Olaf tower, because it offers a unique view of Vyborg.
Museums
Among other things, in the castle you canlook at the exposition of two museums - local history and history of the fortress. 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 the historical periods in which the region developed. In the local history you will find a simple and concise exhibition with 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 take with you?
There is no food on sale at the castle, but itIt is located in the central part of the city, so here it is easy to find a place where you can eat. There is a restaurant not far from the site on which the fortress stands in Vyborg. The name of the institution is “Round Tower”. Here you will enjoy delicious food and interesting entertainment.
It is also worth noting that the cost of entrance tickets to the tower and museums is 100 rubles.
Many are interested in how to come to the fortress inVyborg. You will not need the address, as it is located in the very center of the city. Be sure to dress warmly, because a piercing wind almost always blows at a height.
If the starting point is St. Petersburg, Vyborg (its pointer) is at the turn from M10 to Leningradskoe Highway.
In addition, the old castle can be reached by train or bus, which depart from the city's railway stations in St. Petersburg.
