Jorvik Viking Centre, in York, UK, re-opens this week following a £4m (US$4.96m, €4.67m) refurbishment project. The renovation works were necessary following devastating floods that hit the north of England in December 2015, causing untold damage to homes, buildings and infrastructure.

After being affected by the floods, Jorvik invested in a major redevelopment to upgrade and re-imagine the visitor experience, while staying true to its unique offering, where guests feel fully immersed in what life was like in the Viking era, and learn about the archaeology of the actual site, which dates back to AD960.

"What was found on this very site changed everyone's understanding of the Vikings in Britain," said Sarah Maltby, the attraction director. "This latest incarnation of Jorvik incorporates the latest technology and interpretative techniques to share the incredible depth of knowledge in an accessible way that immerses the visitor in the sights, sounds and smells of the Viking-age city."

The upgrades also respond to visitor feedback, so more is made of video, photography and sound exhibits as storytelling tools, and the ride through Viking York has been extended by a full three minutes.

York's viking centre faces year-long closure following devastating floods

Jorvik centre reopens

FEATURE: Last Word – Sarah Maltby