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 that stands there has preserved its medieval atmosphere. Moreover, to see it, you do not need to leave the borders of the country. Many travelers love the historical sites that St. Petersburg has to offer. Vyborg can also become a place for a wonderful holiday, which can be combined with educational excursions. The fortress until the 18th century was in the possession of the Swedes, after that it was controlled by Russia until the beginning of revolutionary times. In fact, the fortress is relatively small, but well-built and for many centuries was used to defend the city and the whole direction. The castle is a popular place for tourists. But do not confuse this fortress in guidebooks with a theater called "Holy Fortress" (Vyborg). This attraction, 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 taken up by the Swedes after the Karelian settlement located on thisterritory. It was not by chance that this place was chosen, as it makes it possible to control the river. At the end of the 13th - beginning of the 16th century, the Novgorodians made unsuccessful attempts to capture the fortress.
Due to the fact that there was a constant external threat, the building was periodically improved. So, over time, Olaf's tower was erected, and already in the 15th century, magnificent decoration of the interior was provided and additional fortifications were built. In 1710, the troops commanded by Peter the Great took the castle (as well as Vyborg in general). During the siege, the fortress was destroyed, and when it began to be restored, the interior was changed. Two centuries later, they tried to improve the building again, but then the changes affected the internal planning. There were no arched vaults 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.
Castle building
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 that strengthens the coast meets on the way to the castle. Further, when a series of gates is passed, the visitor gets to the first courtyard. If you get into the rows of internal fortifications, you can find a passageway that allows you to bypass the castle around. Some buildings were erected relatively recently, apparently, when the fortress had already been captured.
Entertainment inside the castle
On the territory of the upper courtyard, as a rule, there are children's attractions. For example, the guys here can do archery, take part in driving round dances. There is also 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, like Vyborg. The fortress, however, gathers lovers of such entertainment, who hold grandiose tournaments. And if we talk about the activities of those who are fond of historical reconstruction, then they gather here by separate clubs and organizations. Participants compete in armor in sword fights, experienced horsemen take part in duels. Entertainment in Vyborg is good in spring, when bad weather does not interfere with events.
Olaf's Tower
This building is the heart of the fortress, and of the whole city. Vyborg is proud of this place. The fortress is also known from photographs of Olaf's tower, towering over the city by as much as forty-eight meters. A special atmosphere is present in this place due to the fact that the fire destroyed the internal structures, so the ascent to the top is carried out with the help of wooden scaffolding. The passage is often narrow and sometimes hangs over an empty space. If you find it difficult to climb, you can sit on a bench halfway. While in Vyborg, be sure to visit the Olaf Tower, because it offers a unique view of Vyborg.
Museums
Among other things, on the territory of the castle you can look at the exposition of two museums - local history and the history of the fortress. Each of them is interesting in its own way. In the fortress museum you will learn a lot about the Russian-Swedish confrontation and the historical periods in which the region developed. In the local history museum, a simple and concise exposition with good design awaits you. The second museum will be of interest to those who want to learn more about the nature of the Karelian Isthmus.
How to get there and what to take with you?
The castle does not sell food, but it is located in the central part of the city, so it is easy to find a place to eat here. There is a restaurant not far from the site where the fortress in Vyborg stands. The name of the institution is "Round Tower". Here you will be pleased with 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 in Vyborg. You do not need an address, as it is located in the very center of the city. Be sure to dress warmly as biting winds almost always blow at altitude.
If the starting point is St. Petersburg, Vyborg (its sign) is on the turn from the M10 to the Leningrad highway.
In addition, the ancient castle can be reached by train or bus, which depart from St. Petersburg city stations.
