York State of Mind

Jorvik Viking Centre

Another destination on our drive up England was the city of York. In addition to seeing its twisty, medieval streets and wall, we decided to visit the Jorvik Viking Centre. Two years ago, when we were driving in Newfoundland, we visited the Viking Archaeological Site at L’Anse aux Meadows and enjoyed it immensely. So we were looking forward to learning more about the Vikings.

 

Interestingly, we've gone to a lot of tourist destinations so far, but this was the only one to really feel like a tourist trap. The recreated scenes from a viking village were incredible, complete with mannequins and animatronics. However, you are taken on a one-way tour of it in a Disneyland-like automated car with piped in audio. The end result was you had to go at their speed and could only learn what they could fit in a 5 minute narration and no going back to linger or see it again. Such a shame when there were so many fascinating details portrayed in each scene!

At the end, they had a number of displays of viking artifacts that were quite interesting. My favorite was the sock - an example of looped, intricate sewing that isn't all that easy to do!

Stinky Viking Sock!

Also fascinating video about the expansive explorations Vikings made around the globe. We had no idea how deep throughout Europe they explored - basically covering all the river routes extensively - and portaging for miles on land between rivers.

Viking Trade Routes in Europe

We chatted with a "Viking" about the numerous coins found nearby and how the exchange of currency worked. It was established based on the weight of the silver, but kings from different areas would underwrite the making of coins and stamp their heads on them. A seasoned trader could tell by the feel of the coin if it was truly made of silver and the right weight. However, you could also judge based on taste and softness if you were being given the real deal!

York Castle

After it was time for a mad dash up to the remains of York Castle at Clifford's Tower. Certainly the highlight was the free dress up with swords and shields. Since Mom keeps refusing to allow the boys to spend their allowance on the multitudes of wooden swords, spears and cross bows at all the gift shops, they were quite happy to indulge in some play fights. Admittedly, they only actually hurt each other a few times. Still, no weapon purchases allowed, by order of Mom.

At the Base

At the Top

The Battle for the Castle of York

And we're still not sure why New Amsterdam changed its name to be the new York.