Modern Crimea is proud not only of its sights of ancient times, but also of new ones that are created literally before our eyes. The history of the rapid and rapid development of the Crimean peninsula attracts enthusiasts who can easily and easily tell about this. And most importantly, show! It was with the hands of such caring people that the Viking Park was created.
Idea of creation
Work in the park has not yet been completed. And they began with the scenery of a Scandinavian village from the Middle Ages. They were made for the filming of the full-length film “Viking”. It is not known who came up with the idea of turning unnecessary scenery into an interesting, profitable, entertaining, historical and educational center. But now in the Crimea in the Viking Film Park, tourists are pleased to get acquainted with the traditions, life and life of the Scandinavians, Byzantines and Slavs.
Due to all the ongoing work in the park, his card issued at the entrance does not quite correspond to reality (this topic flashes in the reviews).
How it all started
The development of the park’s events is driven by reports from chroniclers who told about the fate of Jarl Harald. This is a brave Norwegian warrior who served with his squad in Byzantium as a mercenary. Having accumulated money and jewelry, the detachment gathered home.
But the storm changed their plans and, breaking the rooks, “dropped off” the Vikings on the Crimean coast. Since there was nothing to swim further, the soldiers went on foot, overcoming the mountains and plains. One day they had a view very similar to the southern lands of Norway. Here they decided to stay. So there was a settlement - the Borg. Over time, it expanded and strengthened. Only nomads in the 13th century could destroy it. It was this settlement that formed the basis of the Viking Park.
A time machine exists!
In any case, going to the past is quite easy. What the guests of the Crimean park do. The reconstruction of the described Scandinavian settlement of the 8th – 11th centuries takes tourists to times without asphalt and materials from plastic and synthetics. Roads are sprinkled with straw, wooden buildings, including a bridge and craft workshops. Moreover, the structures were built by laying logs in a special vertical way. They were created by professionals. In the Viking city, chains, door handles and nails are made by hand. As well as nets, ropes and skins dressed as in old times.
The fortress gates and the palisade block the king’s house (the prince’s dwelling), artisans’s housing, an authentic market, a forge, watchtowers, a shooting range, an armory, a military training area and a dragcar (from Old Norse Drage - “dragon” and Kar - “ship” ", The literal translation is" dragon ship "; and today it is called the narrow, long wooden Viking ship with a high stern tail).
The stylized restaurant serves local produce. Recipes are selected according to the period of reconstruction. Exclusive cheese and bread are on sale.
What is it like in the Middle Ages?
Guests of the Viking Film Park leave the most vivid reviews about theatrical performances. The most bewitching of them is the “Viking Fight”. Reconstructors carefully studied historical data and took into account everything: weapons, combat techniques, and the construction of warriors - everything is true.
In craft workshops, in front of amazed tourists, products are made in the same way as in the Middle Ages. Judging by the reviews, things made in the workshops can be bought, or you can, taking part in the master class, create a unique product with your own hands, whether it be a coin or a sword.
From small to large
Any guest is given the opportunity to ride a horse. And very young visitors to the park are invited to ride a pony or a donkey.
The guests of the weaving house will enjoy a fascinating story about the costumes of women and men of the Viking village. And in the house of tanning, tourists are surprised to learn that not only shoes and clothes were made of leather, but also dishes, which they then tell everyone in their reviews.
There is no end to those who want to try on the armor of a warrior of the Middle Ages and to master in them two or three methods of warfare. This is especially true for the younger generation.
Parents say it’s impossible to take the children out of the park. They are delighted with everything. They are attracted, for example, by unusual wooden buildings, the opportunity to get riding lessons and various stylized souvenir gifts. And the photos! Yes, any friend would be jealous if he sees a photograph on which his owner is standing in full uniform with a sword and shield, and next to him is a “real” Norwegian warrior!
There is also a petting zoo in the park. Here gathered pets who lived in Viking settlements in the distant Middle Ages. Animals in the zoo live in families. Children are happy to watch them, feed and take pictures.
Well, one cannot fail to say that the Viking Park also carries an educational load. Parents of schoolchildren especially note that the history of the Middle Ages is presented here in such a unique form that it is simply impossible not to remember.
If you come to the park during the day
It is better to start a journey into the past with an exciting excursion that starts at the gates of the park every 10-15 minutes. The guide acquaints guests with the history of the park, its locations (interactive points and places for master classes in medieval craft and martial art).
Each person entering the Viking Park receives a prize quest and a bag of local currency, the kunas. The winner, who has shown courage, dexterity, strength and passed the tests that fell to his lot, while collecting 8 marks, receives a reward lunch in the city restaurant "Honey House of Prince Vladimir".
Everyone who wants to learn how to throw an ax, spear or knife, as well as shoot from a bow, like a real medieval warrior, is waiting for the Vikings at combat master classes. They will teach everyone, but they will demand a fee (otherwise how can a Viking get rich?).
If you could not win anywhere, there is no reason to be upset! Each kuna gives a one percent discount on any dish in the restaurant.
And if in the evening
In the dark, life in the settlement is gaining momentum. Guests of the Viking Film Park in Crimea are waiting for the storming of the gates, the capture of the borg, the battle for the city, fun boasting around the campfire and theatrical show - “The Viking Age”. It tells about the period of life of medieval warriors and their sea journeys to distant lands.
The evening ends with a fiery performance and large round dances around a fire and folk festivals.
If you are just a spectator, the organizers offer to book a table on the open summer terrace of the Honey House of Prince Vladimir. Here you can, comfortably settled down, watch what is happening, sipping kvass made according to old recipes, or enjoy delicious dishes.
The evening program starts at 20.00. Those wishing to enter the park earlier and catch daytime workshops or participate in quests need only to buy a bag with golden coons at the entrance, and the path is open.
New opportunities
The park is constantly expanding. Naturally, new concert programs, various promotions and shows are appearing. In the Viking Film Park (see photo in the article) by appointment, guests can take part in the evening performance. Here, the performances for the 18+ audience category are complemented by dances on the water and a fire show. And there are even screen tests in the park. Maybe someone is dozing acting talent ...
Viking Film Park: how to get there
The park was located near the Red Caves almost along the highway from Simferopol to Alushta. The easiest way to find the park, focusing on the village of Perevalnoe. Further movement is carried out according to the signs leading to the Red Caves.
Address of Viking Film Park: Perevalnoye village, Simferopol district, Republic of Crimea.
The revived medieval city is waiting for its guests!