After nearly half a century standing at the south end of Second Avenue in Gimli, the iconic Viking statue disappeared from view two weeks ago.
The 4.6-metre tall fiberglass statue was taken down to be refurbished.
Built in 1967, the Viking, designed by Gissur Eliasson, began to deteriorate in recent years.
It was sent for $60,000 worth of repairs at the start of May, and was revealed to the public Friday.
Its designer’s family was in attendance at the revealing ceremony.
Eliasson’s son said the repairs were done so well, they’re not even noticeable.
“(My dad) would love it. You know, this really was his legacy," said Glen Eliasson. "I think today he would have loved to see his grandsons and all these people and a lot of people that knew him coming out and looking at the Viking.”
The Viking isn't the only thing in Gimli getting an update.
The Icelandic Festival, along with the RM, has plans underway to turn the green space surrounding the statue into Viking Park.
The hope is that the park will be complete for Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017.
It relies on public funding. More information is available online.
