Historical Detective – The Battle Roads of the Chronicle of Henry
HISTORICAL DETECTIVE: In Search of the Ancient Battlefields of Imera!
Two battles that significantly influenced the course of the Estonian conquests in the early 13th century took place along the Imera River—these were the First (1210) and Second (1223) Battles of Imera.
Much is known about the sequence of events—both battles, especially the second—are mentioned in nearly all 13th-century historical sources. The Lettish chronicler Henry provides a detailed account. However, the exact location of these events remained vague until the spring of 2016, when it was generally assumed the site was Jumara near Valmiera.
In February 2016, following extensive theoretical research, an expedition set out—guided by clues in the Chronicle’s text, noting hiking times and distances, and identifying potential ancient sites. The expedition team successfully localized the battlefields and tracked the likely historical decisions and movements of the participants, reconstructing their logic in the natural landscape.
History comes alive when we walk in the footsteps of our ancestors.
A Historical Expedition of Experience
Following ancient war paths and forest trails through legendary acts of valor, from Lake Raiskums to the cliffs of the Strīķupe.
Expedition goal:
To consciously trace, in nature, the possible war paths and directions described in the Chronicle of Henry—reaching back 800 years. To understand the tactics, combat methods, and survival skills characteristic of the era.
We provide participants with:
A thrilling detective story told in real-time, in an authentic setting. The questions: WHEN? WHERE? WHY? and HOW?
Themed historical gear – walking spears (as symbolic staffs), and upon request, full or partial knight’s armor for a more immersive and challenging experience
A picnic featuring local Raiskums household products and hot herbal tea
Educational storytelling, insightful discussions, visual materials, demonstrations, and historical activities during the hike and at the picnic site – including archery, spear throwing, and basic swordplay
Difficulty level: Medium, suitable for physically active individuals
Distance: ~18 km
Maximum participants: 15 people
