Every year modern-day Vikings descend on Spain here's what it looks like
In Northwestern Spain, the small village of Catoria along the Ulla river is home to 3,500 people, but on the first Sunday of every August, it is invaded by Vikings.
The tradition has been alive in the region since 1961, when a group of intellectuals from around Catoria responded to decades of oppression from the Francoist government of the time by creating a festival that celebrate the rich history of region.
They decided on a reenactment of the defeat of King Ulfo's viking invaders by Archbishop Gelmírez’ troops near the Ulla river where two ancient towers still stand.
Today the tradition lives on with a week of musical and theatrical performances, which culminates in feasting, a mass at the Chapel of St. James, and finally pipers walk the streets leading festival goers to the river banks where the real Viking festivities take place.
Here are some pictures of the revelers in action:
The invasion starts on the first Sunday in August, after a night of feasting, fireworks, and speeches the Saturday night before.
If you're low on battle gear, a medieval market surrounds the scene and helps provide context for the mock battle.
Though horned helmets may not be historically accurate, Viking attire is required to participate in the festival.
Once the Viking ship lands on the muddy banks of the Ulla, the mock battle is on.
The sides clash during the mock battle.
Festival goers relive the battle on the muddy banks of the Ulla river.
The festival includes a replica of an 11th century Danish Viking ship made by young people in Catoria with help from National Museum of Roskilde and experts in Catoria's twin city, Frederikssund, Denmark.
The wine, and not blood, flows freely during this mock battle.
There is also lots of shouting.
The battle is not won or lost by anyone, but it is a fun time for all.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o8HSoqWeq6Oeu7S1w56pZ5ufonymwsSrsGaxlZa%2FbrnOnZyrpl2Zrrp51aKioqaXqHqlsdKcnKecXaS7br%2FPmqCnZZiav6a%2FjLCfmqxdnsFuuM6ooqxlnJ64pnmRaWhuZWg%3D