Vikings… they’re back
Published 22 January, 2009, 10:08
Edited 08 September, 2009, 11:00
Were the Vikings all about battles, swords and axes? History tells us they were fierce warriors whose very name struck fear into the hearts of European tribes. But Vikings haven't been seen for centuries… until now.
The way of life, atmosphere and habits of the Vikings are popular in many countries, including Russia. Fans visit museums, gather in clubs and, although it’s hard to imagine, even start to live like real Vikings.
And you can find them living like Viking in the Russian village of Svengard.
The village is a copy of a Viking settlement from the 11th century.
Founded in 2005, it has become home for families wanting to reproduce the way of life of their ancient forefathers.
The leader of the community, Alexey Dudin, explained the commitment.
“This is a private project. When this land was bought it was a completely destroyed old dacha. Many projects like this in other countries are open only occasionally, but we live here throughout the year despite cold winters,” Dudin said.
Indeed, many villages of this kind exist in Europe but there people gather only on special occasions.
Russians from across the country are coming to Svengard to change the standards of their life or simply for fun.
“I came here from Siktivkar; I decided to get this unprecedented experience that I couldn't get while living in the city,” Ivan Yurov said.
However, those in Svengard say it only seems like fun. The reality and routine of daily life in the village, they say, is quite difficult.
What to eat and how to stay warm often become the main challenges and preoccupations.
“Life here is indeed difficult, it might seem romantic for some, but everyday you think about keeping yourself warm. Still, I wish my daughter would like it here, but she is only three years old,” resident Konstantin Sholmov said.
Meanwhile, Svengard is growing in size and even attracting tourists.
It's possible to visit the village, try the Viking cuisine and even join in battles with the citizens.
Those involved say the project is a way of keeping the ancient Scandinavian memory alive. And by so doing, to understand themselves better.
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