The medieval sea town of Vyborg with its ancient 13th-century castle is a lovely change from the baroque palaces of St. Petersburg city center. This unique region near the Russian-Finnish border, where Swedish, Finnish and Russian descendants all lived together tells of a time before St. Petersburg was built.
The domination of the Swedes was not accepted by the Novgorodians, who also laid claim to these territories. The confrontation lasted several centuries. Being strategically located, Vyborg attracted attention of Peter the Great and in summer of 1710 the city was conquered by the Russian troops. Thus, Russia secured St. Petersburg from invasions and gained access to the Baltic Sea.
For a century, Vyborg served an important trading center of the North-West of Russia. At the beginning of the 19th century, the town became a part of the Grand Duchy of Finland, a principality of the Russian Empire. After the Revolution the territory was ceded to Finland as the country got independence, but after WWII Viborg and Karelian Isthmus returned to Russia.
For many years, Vyborg town has been absorbing the culture, architecture and history of several nations, and that`s why the castle and its surroundings are very popular among visitors.
Vyborg Castle was founded by the Swedes during the 3rd crusade and got the name “The Holy Fortress”. The 7-meter-high wall defended the town from the enemies while the look-out tower of St. Olaf symbolized the dominance of the Christian faith. Today it is the most recognizable city`s symbol. Besides visiting its observation deck, you can see the Commandant House in the fortress used by Peter I during his trips to the area, and even try on the armours of a Medieval knight.
Among other notable attractions is the Old Town Hall built in the 17th century. During its history, the building was destroyed and restored several times, and today is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. On the square in front of the Town Hall is the monument to the founder of Vyborg – the Swede Torgils Knutsson. The Round Tower, the oldest city`s construction, and the modernist Library of Alvar Aalto, the Market square and the small boutiques with local delicacies and gifts should not be missed during a relaxed walk down the medieval streets of this untypical but charming Russian town.
Open hours
Days-off: Monday (for Сastle)
Recommendations
We recommend this sight for return visit to St. Petersburg: history and nature tour.
