Travel
Discover Iceland through the Icelandic sagas
“Eigi skal höggva!” (Don’t strike!) had been the final phrases of Snorri Sturluson, saga creator and chieftain of the Sturlungar clan.
In 1241, in the course of the peak of the Age of the Sturlungs – the bloodiest interval of Icelandic historical past – the ruling clans fought for energy. Snorri was assassinated in his house Reykholt in Borgarfjörður by the lads of Gissur Þorvaldsson of the Haukdælir clan. Three years earlier Gissur had defeated the Sturlungar within the fateful battle Örlygsstaðabardagi.
Þórður kakali, of the Sturlungar clan, sought vengeance leading to Flóabardagi – Iceland’s solely sea battle in 1244 – and later in 1246, Haugsnesbardagi (Battle of Haugsnes), when virtually 100 males had been killed.
In 1253, Gissur’s enemies set hearth to his farm Flugumýri however he managed to flee. Ten years later, Iceland misplaced its independence to Norway which marked the tip of the Age of the Sturlungs – and the Icelandic Commonwealth.
Wherever you’re headed in your travels in Iceland, take note of place names. You may acknowledge some from the sagas as a result of this historical past is throughout you. In Skagafjörður you’ll discover Örlygsstaðir, the place the biggest battle in Iceland’s historical past passed off in 1238. And in Sauðárkrókur close by, you’ll be able to take part within the battle via augmented actuality.
Learn on to find out about different Saga Age experiences in Iceland.
The Age of the Sturlungs
These bloody occasions are documented in Sturlunga saga. Most of them performed out in Skagafjörður in North Iceland.
In Sauðárkrókur, the area’s capital, the Icelandic civil conflict is re-enacted at 1238 – The Battle of Iceland. Right here, you’ll be able to study extra about thirteenth century Iceland and take part in Örlygsstaðabardagi – the biggest battle in Iceland’s historical past – via augmented actuality… see when you can change the result.
Nearer to Varmahlíð in Skagafjörður, Kakalaskáli, has an exhibition devoted to the Age of the Sturlungs. It focuses on the story of chieftain Þórður kakali of the Sturlungar clan. Exterior, the bloody Battle of Haugsnes is commemorated via a large-scale outside set up.
In West Iceland, go to Snorrastofa in Reykholt for an exhibition in regards to the life and work of Snorri Sturluson. It’s also possible to see the unique pool the place Snorri used to soak and calm down after a busy day.
Sagaland
In 1241, Snorri might have been silenced however his phrases will stay without end. He chronicled the tales of the Norse kings in Heimskringla and helped protect Norse mythology and poetry in Snorra-Edda. He was possible the creator of Egils saga which largely occurred in West Iceland.
West Iceland is the cradle of the nation’s literary custom. It’s the place a lot of the manuscripts had been written and lots of the sagas had been set. Sturlunga saga is a recent story however the different sagas characteristic a lot earlier occasions. So, as we dive deeper into historical past, put together to journey again to the ninth and tenth centuries, when Iceland was being settled.
The settlers and the enslaved
Within the Settlement Center in Borgarnes, you’ll be able to study extra in regards to the challenges the primary Icelanders confronted in an uninhabited land. Individuals got here trying to find riches and freedom, or they had been introduced in chains and meant to function slaves.
Amongst them was Þorgerður brák, an Irish lady “owned” by settlers Skallagrímur and his spouse Bera. They constructed their house in Borg á Mýrum, close to Borgarnes, and charged Þorgerður with taking care of their son, Egill.
Egils saga doesn’t waste many phrases on Þorgerður or her relationship along with her foster son, however it does describe how she tried to defend Egill when Skallagrímur attacked him. Skallagrímur turned his rage in opposition to her as a substitute. Þorgerður bumped into the ocean and tried to swim away however Skallagrímur threw a rock after her – she by no means resurfaced.
Egill later named his daughter Þorgerður. The channel the place Þorgerður brák was killed has since been referred to as Brákarsund. Study extra about Egill Skallagrímsson’s adventurous, violent and tragic historical past on the Settlement Heart.
Voyaging far and extensive
Additional to the west, within the lush Dalir area, lies Eiríksstaðir of Eiríkur rauði. Conflicts prompted him to go away Iceland for a newly found land, Greenland, the place he based two colonies.
Eiríkur’s son, Leifur heppni, traveled additional west and have become the primary European to succeed in North America across the yr 1000 BC. Their tales are documented in Eiríks saga rauða and Grænlendinga saga.
At at the moment’s Eiríksstaðir, a longhouse has been constructed based mostly on archeological findings and written sources. It’s a residing museum the place you’ll be able to expertise the Viking period via storytelling by the hearth, or by attempting clothes and instruments just like what the settlers as soon as used. Close by is Vínlandssetur, devoted to the explorations of Leifur heppni and his entourage.
On Leifur’s ship was additionally Guðríður Þorbjarnardóttir, who is claimed to have traveled additional than every other lady in her time. After journeying to Greenland and North America, she moved again to Iceland and transformed to Christianity. In her outdated age, she went on a pilgrimage to Rome. There’s a memorial of Guðríður at Laugarbrekka, the farm the place she grew up on Snæfellsnes.
Lethal love triangle
“To him I used to be worst whom I liked finest,” responded Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir when requested which of her husbands she had cherished probably the most. Readers of Laxdæla saga are nonetheless attempting to resolve the riddle. The saga revolves round a love story between Guðrún and foster brothers Kjartan and Bolli. Because of the theme of this saga, and the truth that the primary character is a lady, lecturers have argued that the creator might effectively have been a lady too.
Guðrún lived at Laugar í Sælingsdal. The pool the place she used to wash has been reconstructed and is open for the general public. As you soak in Guðrúnarlaug, let your thoughts wander again to the time Guðrún frequented the pool with Kjartan and Bolli – and to the tragic finish to their love story.
The fairest of hillsides
“Fögur er hlíðin” (truthful is the hillside) mentioned Gunnar á Hlíðarenda of his house in Fljótshlíð, South Iceland. He was about to go away the nation to flee his enemies however determined to remain and face them as a substitute.
Gunnar was mates together with his neighbor Njáll of Njáls saga, who lived at Bergþórshvoll together with his spouse Bergþóra. She and Hallgerður, Gunnar’s spouse, had been no mates, and so they contributed to the escalating conflicts resulting in the arson of Bergþórshvoll and the killing of Gunnar.
Njáls saga is the longest and most colourful of the Icelandic sagas. In Hvolsvöllur, within the area the place the story is ready, Sögusetrið Saga Heart is devoted to the dramatic story and its fundamental characters.
Njáls saga additionally impressed the making of the spectacular 91.16m (299 ft) lengthy Njálurefill tapestry, into which locals and guests have embroidered scenes from the saga utilizing a Viking Age approach between 2013 and 2020. Now an exhibition house for the tapestry is being made on the LAVA Centre in Hvolsvöllur. In Blönduós in North Iceland, an identical piece, the Vatnsdæla á refli tapestry, is presently within the making.
When you’re in Reykjavík, go to the Saga Museum the place you’ll be able to meet and greet a few of saga characters as lifelike wax figures.
The National Museum and the Settlement Exhibition present additional perception into the lives of the primary settlers.
Lastly, Þingvellir National Park is a key place to go to in your exploration of Iceland’s historical past. That is the place Iceland’s parliament was based in 930 AD, and the place the saga characters got here to settle their disputes.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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