Coppergate excavations at York were drawing visitors by 1980. This was an enormous site. Interest in Roman York and the medieval Minster were no longer the main places to visit. When the Jorvik Viking Centre opened in 1984 the evidence of a prosperous trading settlement was amazing. Whatever the early visitors expected they rarely guessed the excitement and involvement of ‘travelling through time’ to see the houses and workshops, where tools and materials indicated what was made and then sold. The Vikings were no longer seen as only ‘invaders and conquerors’. Those who settled here built a prosperous and well organized community. Visitors did feel observers of 10th and 11th century life in Jorvik. It quickly became a very popular place.
The pioneering work in interpreting archaeological evidence brought a much wider knowledge of Viking culture and achievements. Over forty years educational developments at Jorvik have generated enjoyment and learning. Research has been extended to other sites in York. Demand for Jorvik is not limited to buying tickets for a visit, it creates enthusiasm to learn more.
Chris Tuckley is Head of Interpretation and Learning for the Jorvik Group/York Archaeological Trust, a post which he has held since 2013. His role includes developing exhibition content for the Group’s attractions and for partner ventures, overseeing the Trust’s formal learning programme, and managing its academic and research partnerships. He has worked in the museum sector since 2003, and was awarded a PhD by the Institute of Medieval Studies, University of Leeds, in 2009.