Europe is full of enchanting medieval towns that feel as though you have stepped into a fairytale when visiting, and among the many is Ribe, a must-see destination for those who love to get a glimpse of what the world looked like in times gone by.
The charming town, located in South-west Jutland, Denmark, is the country's oldest town and has a strong connection to the country's Viking legacy, making it the perfect destination for history lovers and travellers who desire authentic and cultural experiences.
Ribe was founded around 710 CE, and interestingly enough, the town isn't only the oldest in Denmark but also in the whole of Scandinavia.
It dates back to the Viking Age, when it served as a central trading hub connecting Scandinavia with the rest of Europe, according to Forbes.
In fact, the town has preserved its Viking heritage to such an extent that visitors can learn all about the time period at the Ribe Viking Centre, which is open from mid-April to mid-October.
With the use of reconstructions based on archaeological research, handicrafts, and even food, the historical museum takes its guests back over 1,000 years in time to experience the authentic life of a Viking.
While the Viking era is a significant part of Ribe's cultural heritage, there is much more that can be traced back to the town. The cobbled streets and half-timbered homes are a testament to the town's own longstanding history, as well as the Ribe Cathedral, believed to be the oldest in Denmark.
The Romanesque church was constructed in the 12th century, and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes.
One visitor on TripAdvisor said: "Very beautiful! It was so interesting to see the graves and plaques commemorating lives lived so long ago. Very beautiful and grand. Organ music softly played as we walked around. We only spent about a half hour walking around the sanctuary."
Another wrote: "If you're into old buildings and fascinating hidden gems, take the tour to the top of the church. The view is fantastic and on a clear sunny day it's good experience. It can however be a little windy."