Copenhagen to the West - Viking to Modern

Roskilde was the hub of the Viking land and sea trade and Denmark's capital from the 11th century until 1443. We will have a fun day exploring the transition from Viking to modern Denmark. In 1997, five Viking sea vessels of various types were discovered scuttled for defensive purposes in a key location of Roskilde Fjord. The remnants have been carefully preserved in Roskilde's Viking Museum, and exact duplicates of each have been reconstructed by local artisans. Rides on a genuine Viking style vessel are possible, weather permitting. The magnificent Roskilde Cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th centuries in a primarily Romanesque style with Gothic influences. It was the first Gothic cathedral in Scandinavia to be built of brick, resulting in the spread of this style throughout northern Europe. It is the final resting place of 39 Danish monarchs.

Meet at the Copenhagen Central Station for the 25 minute train ride to the Roskilde Central Station -- walk along the pedestrian lane to the historic city center; -- Roskilde Cathedral -- Roskilde Palace -- Roskilde Convent -- Roskilde Museum -- walk down the hillside to the Viking Museum -- ride in an exact duplicate of an original Viking ship -- learn from the artisans recreating Viking culture -- other historic, period churches It is also possible to bring bikes on the train or to rent bikes in Roskilde to better explore some of the local countryside. A private vehicle is another option