Shalom and welcome back to our Tiyul blog! Today was all about soaking up the sights and having a blast in Vienna and Durstein.

Our day kicked off with a stroll along Berggasse Street, a historic road that served as the stomping grounds for two iconic Jewish figures: Sigmund Freud and Theodore Herzl. As we wandered the quaint streets, we learned more about the ideas that Freud brought to the world of psychology. We were able to make some connections to some of what we had talked about in Reading Workshop, such as his theories on the unconscious mind and human behavior. However, we were able to really center our studies of Herzl and Zionism. Herzl's dream of a Jewish homeland paved the way for the establishment of the state of Israel. His writings and advocacy sparked a movement that would forever change the course of Jewish history. It was inspiring to think about the courage and determination it took for Herzl to pursue his vision in the face of so much opposition.

Next on our agenda was a scavenger hunt in the antiquities gallery of the absolutely beautiful Kunsthistorisches Art Museum. Armed with clues, we attempted to unravel the secrets of ancient civilizations…though, the scavenger hunt was REALLY challenging!

We then hit the road and headed to Durnstein, a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Danube River. Our destination: the imposing ruins of Durnstein Castle, perched high atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the enchanting Wachau Valley. The hike up to Durnstein Castle was tough but totally worth it for the killer views of the Wachau Valley. We explored the castle ruins, snapped some pictures, and just soaked in the scenery. Down in the town of Durnstein, we wandered around and took in the laid-back vibes. Then it was onto a riverboat for a cruise along the Danube. It was so fun to relax in the sunshine and take in more of the beautiful scenery. 

Lola and Sam Solow, tell us about the hike. How challenging was it? What did you see along the way? What did you see and learn on the top of the mountain?

Sam: After the moderately challenging fifteen minute hike, we reached an old castle that belonged to a Duke of the area from the 1100's. We learned about the history of the castle and how Richard the Lionheart, from England, was held at the castle because it was mainly used as a prison for political prisoners. Richard the Lionheart was held for ransom for 22,000 pounds of silver, an incomprehensible amount of money for a small town. We admired the amazing view and then we went back down to the small town of Durnstein and took a boat tour of the surrounding river.

Lola: I liked the hike because even though it was tiring, it was really rewarding when we got to see the view at the top. I thought I was going to pass out the whole time but it was so worth it. Hanging out with everyone up at the top was so fun because we felt like we accomplished something as a group. Because we couldn't hike Masada in Israel, it made us feel like we got to experience something similar to what our siblings did on their Israel trips. We also got to see new views coming back down and talk about it the whole way. It was so fun to be able to experience that as a grade. 

Zoe, what were some of your favorite parts of Vienna? What are you looking forward to in Prague?

Zoe: I liked the independent time we got where we could walk around with friends and shop. When we did that we were able to use euros and learn a little more about the culture and the language. When I got ice cream the first day the guys working there taught me how to order in German ( I got Mango and it was really good. ) Coming up, I am looking forward to our beach day because I like the water and I prefer exploring the outdoors. (Hey Ms. Sanzenbacher- wish you were here!)

Our next stop is Rychnov, and we are excited to share more with you in our next post. Miss and love you all back home!