About this experience
Throughout its almost 1000-year history, Narva, located on the border of two civilizations, has often been the stage for major events - every war in the region passed through the city. Ivan the Terrible and Peter the Great fought for it, trying to open a 'window to Europe' for Russia. It served as an entrance for Viking ships following the path from the 'Varangians to the Greeks'. Later, crusaders settled here, during the Swedish Empire era, Narva acquired a distinct style of 'Northern Baroque'. During the tour, I will introduce you to the main sights, tell you some interesting legends, and show specially selected illustrative materials to help you better understand the city and its inhabitants.
What to Expect
A Glimpse into Narva's Past
I will tell you the most important facts about the key historical periods of Narva. You will learn about the ancient times of the Vikings, about the city's history when it was part of Kievan Rus. We will also discuss the crusaders and the Livonian Order, the 'Golden Swedish Time', and the era of building Narva in the 'Northern Baroque' style. Additionally, you will hear about Peter the Great's conquest of Narva during the Great Northern War, about the city's life after becoming part of the Russian Empire, about the construction of the important Krenholm Manufactory and the Krenholm district itself. As a result, you will have a comprehensive understanding of Narva, and the city will become much closer and clearer to you.
Historical Reconstruction - Postcards, Artifacts, Coins
To prevent the history of Narva from becoming a dry narrative for you, besides the existing architectural objects, I will show you 175 specially selected postcards with antique city views and images of past battles, as well as over 70 different types of coins that were used here, about 50 artifacts and archaeological finds from the region, many of which are over 1000 years old.
Key Sights of Narva and Ancient Legends of the City
Our city has many interesting architectural wonders worth visiting. All of them will be included in our program. You will see the 17th-century town hall, old Baroque-style houses, Swedish bastions, Narva Castle, the 'Swedish lion' monument, the Krenholm district with its red-brick buildings (19th century), the entire manufactory complex along with Krenholm island, Resurrection Cathedral, Alexander's Church. The overview of these objects will definitely be accompanied by stories, myths, and tales. You will hear the legend of Princess Olga, who almost drowned in the local river; how Peter the Great, disguised in a skirt, won a battle in the Great Northern War; about Ivan the Terrible's pirate fleet based in the port at the mouth of Narva; about the descendant of the last Grand Master of the Livonian Order, the Duke of Courland, and many other stories that will help you vividly imagine the life of Narva and its inhabitants in different times.
Who Is This Tour For
For anyone who wants to get a general overview of the city, especially suitable for families with children. I conduct the tour dressed as a monk from the Cistercian monastery built in Narva in the 14th century. Many legends are reenacted. Additionally, there will be historical games with prizes during the tour.
