Golden Ring of Russia cities, attractions, history, photos. Traveling along the Golden Ring of Russia A message about the city of the golden porch
In my carefree youth, my sister and I spent a lot of time traveling around our country. We always chose cities at random: based on weather conditions and transport accessibility. Just recently, I was surprised to discover that I had not missed a single city of the Golden Ring. I must say that traveling to each of them left me with a lot of pleasant impressions.
Official composition of the "Golden Ring"
So, The Golden Ring of Russia is the cities that managed to preserve ancient artifacts. Surprisingly, it is only recognized 8 cities from 5 regions:
- Moscow region: Sergiev Posad;
- Vladimir region: and ;
- Ivanovo region: Ivanovo;
- Kostroma region: ;
- Yaroslavl region: , Rostov Veliky And Pereslavl-Zalessky.
- Kasimov(Ryazan Oblast);
- (Kaluga region).
Expanded composition of the "Golden Ring" of Russia
When you think about it, you realize that the list of cities filled with the atmosphere of antiquity does not end with ten from the traditionally accepted list. Personally, about a dozen other wonderful places come to mind: where you can feel the spirit of ancient Rus':
- Plyos;
- Palekh;
- Bogolyubovo;
- Gus-Khrustalny;
- Kalyazin.
Why the ring
In the 60s, a series of notes about ancient Russian cities was published under the single cycle “Golden Ring”. Since then, the designation has stuck and today's Golden Ring- this is a tourist concept. They denote route through ancient cities. Looking at the map, you can see that this route forms a not entirely smooth ring.
What you can see while traveling along the Golden Ring
It’s worth starting with the fact that the cities of the Golden Ring are located in amazingly picturesque places: on the banks of rivers and lakes and are notable for their stunning landscape. But, of course, that's not all! Traveling along the Golden Circle, you will see:
- monasteries and cathedrals, churches and temples, - there will be an incredible number of them,
- ancienturban development,
- interesting, often quite small museums with truly valuable exhibits.
- in addition, in some places they are still preserved craft traditions: Experience true mastery.
It’s a good place to stroll through the cities of the Golden Ring, enjoying the leisurely lifestyle of the Russian hinterland, and looking for interesting objects.
The Golden Ring of Russia is a famous tourist route with a length of more than 1000 kilometers, which passes through the ancient cities of Vladimir-Suzdal and Moscow Rus'. The route includes about 20 cities in the Moscow, Ivanovo, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Tver regions. Historical and architectural monuments of the 12th-18th centuries are concentrated here, which constitute a treasury of Russian culture. These unique sights are protected by the Russian state and UNESCO. The term “Golden Ring” was attached to this tourist route in the 60s of the last century. Then journalist Yuri Bychkov wrote a series of essays on the pages of the Soviet Russia newspaper about eight cities northeast of Moscow, which stand out for their rich cultural and historical heritage. Today this phrase, first used in 1967, is widely known in Russia and abroad. The Golden Ring includes eight main cities: Sergiev Posad, Pereslavl-Zalessky, Rostov Veliky, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Ivanovo, Suzdal and Vladimir.
The idea to “ring” ancient Russian cities belongs to the All-Russian Society for the Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments. In 1974, the first guidebook “Around the Golden Ring of Russia” was published.
It will take almost a month to complete the entire route. Therefore, it is better to travel around ancient Russian cities on small tourist routes that take 2-3 days. Moscow will be your starting point. The most convenient way, of course, is to travel in your own car. Then you will not be tied to a tourist group and will be able to visit those cities and towns along the way that are not included in the traditional route. We assure you that these places are no less attractive to tourists. In addition, this way you can fully enjoy the beauty of the Golden Ring.
Travelers are amazed by the very atmosphere of Russian provincial cities, the lack of fuss and the regularity of life. Wonderful nature pacifies with its discreet beauty. The picturesque places of the Volga coast, the Kotorosl River, Lake Pleshcheevo, and Lake Nero are especially attractive. The nature of central Russia is attractive at any time of the year. There is plenty of space on the banks of rivers and lakes for walks and picnics. All stages of the development of ancient Russian architecture are represented in cities and villages: majestic white-stone churches of the 12th-13th centuries, tent-roofed buildings of the 16th century, buildings of the 17th century, creations of architectural and painting schools of Rostov, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Vladimir.
Numerous historical monuments - fortresses, monasteries and temples, testify to the great importance of each of the cities of the Golden Ring in the ancient and royal periods of history. Each city has its own unique style of ancient architecture. The myriad of Orthodox monasteries, shrines and temples located in this region attracts a large number of pilgrims. And Suzdal and Rostov the Great are real open-air museums. In Suzdal, for example, there are practically no cars. On the streets of the city you will meet mainly pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages. This is a reserve of old, pre-Petrine Rus' with the Kremlin, Pokrovsky and Spaso-Evfimievsky monasteries, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, and a museum of wooden architecture.
In addition to architecture and holy places, during your trip you can get acquainted with the folk crafts of the Russian people. Museums in many cities contain examples of ancient artistic crafts: wood and bone carvings, products of skilled lacemakers and jewelers, lacquer miniatures and enamel painting (enamel) and much more.
Recently, the tourism business has been intensively developing in the cities of the Golden Ring of Russia, so in almost any city you can find excursion services, an acceptable hotel, cafe or restaurant. They say that the best way to understand and experience great Russia, to feel the real Russian soul, is to drive through the historical places of the Golden Ring, see historical monuments with your own eyes, enjoy ancient architecture, art and painting, and see ancient icons of ancient Russian masters.
Many people living in Russia, and in other countries, know that there is a Golden Ring of Russia, and many would also like to visit cities that fit into the Golden Ring. But few people know what these cities are and why they were placed in the Golden Ring of Russia.
What it is?
The Golden Ring of Russia is called a route created for tourists, it connects the oldest cities of Russia, these cities are of historical value for Russia, they also carry the cultural heritage of Russia, these cities contain the oldest and rarest monuments of their kind. Among the many cities there are eight main ones. The cities belong to the territory of Moscow and neighboring regions:
- Pereslavl-Zalessky;
- Sergiev Posad;
- Yaroslavl;
- Rostov Veliky;
- Suzdal;
- Ivanovo;
- Kostroma;
- Vladimir.
There are also disputes over other cities whose heritage is of great importance to Russia, and it is not uncommon for visits to such cities to be included in some circuit tours.
Back in 1967 a Moscow journalist was sent to do a short report about the city of Suzdal, and the journalist wrote not only about Suzdal, but also about other ancient cities that are located along the Yaroslavl highway. In the article, Yuri Bychkov used the name of the route he himself invented - the Golden Ring of Russia.
To all travelers to the beautiful country of Russia just need to make a visit to the cities of the Golden Ring of Russia. The frescoes of the Assumption Cathedral are only a small part of all architectural structures of Ancient Rus'.
Traveling along a long route
We invite you to take a closer look at this tourist route. To begin with, it should be noted some features of terminology. The specifics of the tourism business determines many names for tourist routes.
Without going into details, we note that initially there were eight cities in the Golden Ring. This route is a classic one, but is now often called the small Golden Ring.
It is not difficult to understand that if there is a small ring, then there is also a big. Indeed, such a route exists and includes about twenty cities. Moreover, the composition of this route may vary; there is no such precision as the classic version.
What is included in the expanded composition?
Each city is interesting in its own way; let’s highlight the most interesting sights of the cities of the large Golden Ring.
Let's start with the most ancient monastery in Russia, preserved from 1371.
This building is located in the long-suffering Uglich, which was completely burned down several times and although it is one of the most ancient cities (first mentioned in 900 AD), it has mainly preserved buildings of the 16th century, in addition to the previously mentioned Alekseevsky Monastery.
Let's continue in Veliky Ustyug, which is also sometimes referred to as the large Golden Ring. Of course, it is most interesting to go here with children, who will be able to visit Santa Claus both in winter and summer. Although it is also interesting for adults: there are more than enough beautiful churches, as they say, and in addition there is the opportunity to purchase magnificent handicrafts made of silver, birch bark and other materials.
If we continue to talk about living attractions, such as Santa Claus, then we should continue with the so-called Rostov bells. This term refers to the bells of various churches and cathedrals, which have an amazing sound.
In almost every city on the route there are magnificent Orthodox monasteries. There is an amazing, peaceful atmosphere there; if you are limited in time, you can visit only the main ones (believe me, you will have enough positive impressions):
- the Paraclete hermitage and the Chernigov temple near the Trinity-Sergius Lavra;
- Goritsky, Danilov, Fedorovsky, Nikitsky monasteries in Pereslavl-Zalessky;
- Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery in Yaroslavl;
- Ipatievsky in Kostroma.
Undoubtedly, in Sergiev Posad you should look at the works of Andrei Rublev.
Popular travel options
There are several options for traveling along the Golden Circle. Some people even prefer to hitchhike. Main options the following:
- by car;
- by bus independently or as part of a tourist trip;
- to hitchhike;
- by train;
- cruise on the Volga (in summer).
The most interesting and convenient options are car travel and cruise. We will consider these options further.
Do you want to hitchhike? Useful tips especially for you are in the next section.
By car on your own
The option with a car is attractive because it allows you to choose your route. Try as much as possible create a route so that you have about two days to stay in each city. Regarding accommodation, there are a considerable number of quite affordable options.
Of course, the possibilities for such a trip would be almost limitless if it were not for a characteristic feature of Russia - the quality of roads.
Not everywhere there are federal highways, and not everywhere the roads are ideal for your car. This fact when planning a route should be considered and choose the routes that are most convenient for you.
For example, the roads leading to Pereslavl-Zalessoky and Veliky Rostov are not the best. If the suspension of your car is not the standard of strength, it is quite possible to drive from Sergiev Posad to Yaroslavl, but first things first. For example, let's take the classic route.
The first point is Sergiev Posad, from which Pereslavl-Zalessky is about seventy kilometers. However, you should allow at least two hours for the journey due to the quality of the route. Next comes Veliky Rostov, which is not much more than sixty kilometers from the previous point, but here again you should give a margin of time.
From Rostov the Great the route runs to Yaroslavl, it is replete with traffic police posts and is about 60 kilometers. From here the road leads to cozy Kostroma, which is located 86 kilometers away, and then a little over a hundred kilometers to the weaving city of Ivanovo.
Although the roads to Ivanovo are of tolerable quality, it can be inconvenient for traffic inspectors, who in this city are actively interested in visitors from other regions, perhaps guarding their marriageable girls.
Now we have to go to Suzdal - one of the most interesting cities on the route, about eighty kilometers from Ivanovo. Completes the journey the road from Suzdal to Vladimir, which is a little over 30 kilometers and is of high quality.
Cruise by boat
Just like in the previous version, here tourists can vary the content of the route. Some travel companies offer only eight “classic” cities, while others supplement the trip with other cities and attractions in every possible way. To the delight of tourists, the cities of the route are almost completely framed by rivers; motor ships ply along the rivers:
- Volga;
- Moscow;
- Oka.
Accordingly, which trip to choose depends entirely on you. As a rule, Moscow tour operators offer more interesting and varied options, but then you will need to go to Moscow, where the cruises begin. At the same time, it is quite possible to start a journey from other cities that have their own river ports, for example, from or or Yaroslavl.
The excursion program always includes some cities from the main route, which can be supplemented by other ancient cities of Russia. For example, Nizhny Novgorod, Ryazan or Kasimov are often included in the trip.
It should be noted that there are various thematic tours, which are much more interesting to travel to.
Of course, during a long trip of two or more weeks you will be able to fully explore the cities of the route and learn a lot of new things, but often it is possible to spend no more than a week on a cruise, or even less. Then we advise you to choose a thematic tour that is dedicated to a specific area, some historical events, or has interesting specifics.
If we evaluate attractiveness of cruises, then they certainly represent an almost optimal option for summer tourism. Traveling along rivers creates a certain atmosphere and allows you to better experience the route.
Small Tour Tour - Classic Eight
As mentioned earlier, this term refers to the classic “eight” cities.
One of the most alluring cities– Sergiev Posad, they also gave it the name “Russian Vatican”. Sergiev Posad attracts with its history, directly related to religion. But in turn, he is obliged to the Trinity Monastery. Since the construction of the Trinity Monastery became the reason for the construction of the city of Sergiev Posad.
Also one interesting city is Pereslavl-Zalessky. In modern times, it is a large industrial city, but it never ceases to attract many people.
It attracts with its leisurely life, comfort and silence. In this city there are monasteries built back in the 14th-17th centuries: Goritsky Uspensky, Trinity Danilov, Fedorovsky, Nikitsky monasteries.
Many monuments are located in the city of Ivanovo, in the year there are architectural structures of many eras, they are not as well known as in other cities of the Golden Ring, but they also attract a large number of people with their antiquity. Ivanovo is also known by the same name as “the city of brides”.
Rostov Veliky is a museum city. Many, although they have not been there, have repeatedly seen the Rostov Kremlin, because it was there that Gaidai’s famous comedy about Ivan Vasilevich was filmed. In addition to the Kremlin, there are a huge number of attractions, many of which are more than a thousand years old.
Yaroslavl is considered one of the most beautiful cities on the route. In the city center there are a huge number of buildings from the 16th century. You could also see the sights of this city without visiting the city, since a thousand ruble banknote is dedicated to Yaroslavl.
Suzdal Previously, it was a major center of crafts and trade, although now it is difficult to imagine this, because no more than a couple of tens of thousands of people live in the city. The only evidence of its former greatness are numerous historical buildings. A considerable number of films have been filmed here and excellent mead is made here.
Vladimir is home to several magnificent 12th century cathedrals and magnificent ancient gates. The city is protected by UNESCO.
In Kostroma Many architectural ensembles from the Middle Ages have been preserved. The central part of the city includes ancient temples and monasteries. The city is certainly one of the most beautiful in the Moscow region.
Which city is the most beautiful?
It is difficult to name any specific city, because everyone is original and unique, and in the aesthetic sphere there are no such precise definitions. Here it seems more relevant to focus on personal preferences.
For example, for someone more beautiful cozy and sparsely populated Suzdal, which has no tall buildings. Some people like big cities where they can feel the majesty of Rus', for example, Vladimir, which was previously the capital of an ancient state.
An overview of the cities of the Golden Ring of Russia - in the following video:
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The Golden Ring of Russia is a unique tourist route that runs through the original Russian cities that arose in ancient times.
Which cities are included in the Golden Ring of Russia?
The Golden Ring passes through six regions: Tver, Yaroslavl, Komstroma, Ivanovo, Vladimir, Moscow.
The cities of the Golden Ring of Russia, the list of which is given below, are included in the category of ethnographic and architectural heritage of the Russian land:
- Sergiev Posad (formerly Zagorsk).
- Pereslavl-Zalessky.
- Rostov the Great.
- Yaroslavl.
- Kostroma.
- Ivanovo.
- Suzdal.
- Vladimir.
At the same time, there is still no clear answer to the question of which cities are included in the Golden Ring of Russia. According to some sources, the eight cities listed above are the main ones on the tourist route, which have historical and ethnographic value.
Map. Golden Ring of Russia: cities and roads connecting them
To have an idea about the upcoming trip to Russian historical places, you need to familiarize yourself with the route. The map will help you find out which cities are included in the Golden Ring of Russia. It shows the roads along which the route organized by Moscow travel agencies passes. Tourists are transported in comfortable buses and accompanied by guides who tell them about the sights along the way. You can also drive along the route privately, in your own car, using a map. However, in this case, information about historical attractions will not be enough.
Tours
For several decades now there has been a unique tourist route “Golden Ring of Russia”. The cities, where tours are organized by many companies, boast comfortable hotels, and their surroundings boast landscaped landscapes. Group excursions or private trips accompanied by a guide - all these activities will become possible after visiting a tour agency in Moscow. Tourist packages are offered in several types; you can travel through the main attractions and visit only the main eight cities, or you can take advantage of an extended option with visits to places that are no less interesting in terms of historical and architectural features. In any case, the tourist will find out which cities are included in the Golden Ring of Russia and will have the opportunity to visit them.
Sergiev Posad
The city of Sergiev Posad, the first in the Golden Ring, is located 70 kilometers from Moscow. The visiting card of this settlement is the Trinity Lavra, built in the 15th century. The monastery has 50 church and philistine buildings with the white stone Trinity Cathedral in the center. The icons that decorate the iconostasis in the temple belong to the brush of Andrei Rublev, a famous icon painter. In addition to the Trinity Cathedral, within the monastery’s boundaries there is the Assumption Cathedral, built at the end of the 15th century in the likeness of the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin. The ashes of Boris Godunov and his entire family rest in the Sergiev Posad Cathedral.
Pereslavl-Zalessky
This city is located on the territory of the Pleshcheyevo Lake national park. There are five active monasteries in Pereslavl-Zalessky:
- Nikitsky Monastery.
- Ancient Nikolsky Monastery.
- Danilovsky Holy Trinity Monastery.
- Goritsky Monastery - was closed in 1744, currently it houses a museum.
- Fedorovsky Monastery.
The city became famous because in 1688, Tsar Peter the Great inaugurated the construction of a “funny fleet” on the shores of Lake Pleshcheevo.
There are nine Orthodox churches in Pereslavl-Zalessky, the main temple is the Cathedral of the Transfiguration, which houses the tombs of Russian appanage princes.
Rostov Veliky
The city of Rostov is the pearl of the Golden Ring of Russia, the largest center of tourist pilgrimage. He is a participant in the Russian cooperation program with the Council of Europe on historical and cultural heritage. The architectural monuments of Rostov are included in the treasury of world art, and Rostov bells are works of the bell-musical genre, performed on 13 bells of the famous Rostov belfry. The largest of them weighs 32 tons, and the smallest weighs only a few kilograms.
On the outskirts of Rostov, on the shores of Nero, a picturesque lake, the Yakovlevsky Monastery is located, which has become an example of architecture of different styles, from pseudo-Gothic and Baroque architecture to classical church architecture, brought together. The monastery looks like a miracle city, spread out in a lakeside landscape.
Yaroslavl
Yaroslavl, the oldest Volga city, has 140 architectural monuments.
The most significant of them include:
- Monastery of the Transfiguration with the cathedral of the same name, built in the early 16th century. In 1787, the monastery became the residence of Yaroslavl and Rostov bishops.
- Church of the Prophet Elijah, which is considered a masterpiece of ancient Russian architecture. It is famous for its interior decoration; the walls are painted with frescoes in four tiers. In the lower tier is the life of the disciples of Elijah the Prophet, the second tier is the miraculous deeds of Elijah the Prophet himself, the third is the acts of the apostles, the topmost tier contains scenes of the Resurrection of Christ.
- Tolgsky Monastery is an outstanding architectural ensemble, dominated by the Church of St. John Chrysostom, the Church of the Vladimir Mother of God, the Golden Gate and the bell tower.
- The Temple of John the Baptist is a monument of church architecture of world significance, erected in the 17th century. The luxurious church with fifteen domes impresses with its fine patterns in the brickwork, tiles and wall paintings.
Kostroma
Built at the end of the 17th century according to the plan of Empress Catherine II. The main attraction is the Ipatiev Monastery with the Holy Trinity Cathedral, built in the first half of the 14th century.
In the Ipatiev Monastery there are:
- Trinity Cathedral.
- Corps of Bishops.
- Bell tower.
- Chambers of the Romanovs.
- Fraternal Corps.
Ivanovo
The city of Ivanovo entered the Golden Ring thanks to its achievements in the recent past. Industrial architecture of the 19th century is widely represented here. These are several textile factories that reflect the flavor of that time. Also in Ivanovo is the Calico Museum, where you can learn about the history of textile production.
Suzdal
The oldest city, the main attraction of which is the Suzdal Kremlin, built in 1024. It has preserved the ramparts and ditches from those ancient times. In the Kremlin there is the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, built in 1225, the Bishops' Chambers of the 15th century, and the St. Nicholas Church, built in 1766.
In addition, there are four monasteries in Suzdal:
- Rizopolozhensky (1207).
- Alexander Monastery - built in 1240 by Prince Alexander Nevsky.
- Euthymius Monastery, founded in 1352.
- Pokrovsky Monastery - since 1364 it served for the exile of disgraced boyar wives, queens, and princesses.
Vladimir
Vladimir, the last city in the Golden Ring of Russia, is famous for its triumphal arch made of white stone, gate church and fortress gates built in 1158.
The tourist route "Golden Ring of Russia", the cities, sights and temples of which are considered a UNESCO cultural heritage, is open to everyone. Travel agencies and excursion bureaus in Moscow and
When making plans for how to spend a vacation or weekend, you should pay attention to the tourist route of Russia, known far beyond its borders. And although the sights of the cities that are part of the Golden Ring are not as old as , they have managed to gain popularity among both domestic and foreign travelers.
Which cities are included in the Golden Ring of Russia?
The list of cities included in the Golden Ring tourist route, a few years ago, included 8 settlements that at one time were part of the Vladimir Principality. But this list is expanding, and today Kaluga and Kasimov are officially included in it. It can be assumed that the list will continue to be replenished with new cities (in any case, such a statement was made by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation). But getting into the Golden Ring is not so easy: every locality applying for this must prove that it is worthy of being included in the most popular tourist route in Russia.
The first mention in chronicles of the capital of the Golden Ring dates back to 1108. This is one of the most ancient cities included in the tourist route. It was founded by Vladimir Monomakh on the banks of the Klyazma River (mainly on the left). Vladimir experienced ups and downs, was the most influential settlement and capital of the Vladimir-Suzdal principality, and since 1609 it has suffered more than one attack by Lithuanian-Polish troops. Today the city's population is about 350 thousand people, and on its territory there are 239 architectural landmarks protected by the state.
What comes first? We recommend that you first go to the Assumption Cathedral, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The first church building made of white stone was erected in 1158-1160 by order of the Vladimir prince Andrei Bogolyubsky. The cathedral survived several fires, desolation, was closed during the Soviet period, and today a museum is organized on its territory and religious services are held. Among the valuable historical attractions of the Assumption Cathedral are genuine fragments of Andrei Rublev's frescoes, 19th-century paintings and a tomb where princes and church ministers were buried.
The masterpiece of Russian architecture – the Golden Gate – is also worth seeing. They were also built under Andrei Bogolyubsky in 1164. The Golden Gate was intended for the grand entry into the city of the prince and his retinue. They repeatedly burned out and were destroyed, but each time they were restored. Under Catherine the Great, a gate church was built, and in 1991 the relics of Seraphim of Sarov were transported through them.
What else is worth visiting in Vladimir:
- Patriarchal Gardens.
- Mother of God Nativity Monastery.
- Trinity Church.
- Museum complex "Chambers".
- Cathedral of Demetrius of Thessalonica.
- Catholic Church of the Holy Rosary.
- St. Nicholas Kremlin Church.
- House-museum of the Stoletov brothers.
You can call it a museum city. On its territory, tourists will see 200 historical monuments and attractions, all of which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Judging by ancient chronicles, Suzdal was founded in 1024. It was the capital of the Rostov-Suzdal principality of Yuri Dolgorukov, and survived the invasions of the Volga Bulgars and Crimean Tatars. During Soviet times, many architectural sights of Suzdal were destroyed, churches were taken away from believers. Despite its difficult history, the city is still a treasury of national culture, which annually attracts thousands of tourists from all corners of the globe.
And first you should go to the Suzdal Kremlin. It is located in a bend of the Kamenka River, where defensive fortifications were erected in the 12th century and the city's first cathedral was built. Nowadays there is a museum on the territory of the Kremlin, which displays an extensive exhibition telling about the history of the city. Valuable exhibits from the Nativity Cathedral were also moved here.
The Spaso-Evfimiev Monastery was built in the 14th century as a defensive structure. On its territory there is the crypt of Prince Mikhail Pozharsky and a prison castle, where prisoners under Catherine the Great were kept, and during the Soviet period, German prisoners of war. While visiting the monastery, tourists will be able to hear the bell ringing and see the ancient clock on the tower.
What else to see:
- Bishop's Chambers.
- Mother of God Nativity Cathedral.
- Assumption Church.
- Wooden St. Nicholas Church.
- Elias Church.
- Pokrovsky Monastery.
- Entry of Jerusalem and Pyatnitskaya churches.
- Deposition of Robe Monastery.
- Church of Cosmas and Damian on Yarunova Gora.
- Museum of Wooden Architecture.
Of the entire Golden Ring tourist route, Ivanovo is the youngest city. Its history began in 1871 thanks to the merger of the village of Ivanovo, an old flax processing center, and Voznesensky Posad, an industrial city. Ivanovo chintz has long gained world fame, and the city itself is called the textile capital of Russia. But there are also interesting sights here that allowed the settlement to become part of the Golden Ring.
The main museum of the city - Industry and Art - appeared in Ivanovo thanks to the local manufacturer and public figure Dmitry Burylin. The collection included more than 100 bladed weapons and firearms, Japanese samurai equipment, orders, medals and other valuable exhibits, for the exhibition of which a separate building was built. Its architect was P. A. Trubnikov, and the materials for the house in the neoclassical style were brought from Italy.
Another attraction of Ivanovo is the Duringer estate. The Art Nouveau building was built for a wealthy Swiss at the beginning of the 20th century. The strict medieval appearance and the three-tiered round tower make the estate look like an ancient castle. Local residents say that the house contains countless treasures of the Swiss, which have not yet been found. And according to another legend, the owner of the house was buried in a closed coffin not only because of a contagious disease (Dühringer died of smallpox in 1919), but also because all his wealth was hidden under the coverlet.
What else is worth seeing in Ivanovo:
- Museum of Ivanovo chintz.
- Monuments of constructivism: ship house, bird house, horseshoe house.
- Shchudrovskaya tent.
- Art Square.
- Museum of the Soviet Automotive Industry.
- Museum of the artist A.I. Morozov.
- Vvedensky Monastery.
- House-museum of the Bubnov family.
- Assumption Monastery.
- Transfiguration Cathedral.
- Kazan Church.
The story begins around 1152. The city is the same age as the capital of the Russian Federation and one of the points on the Golden Ring tourist route. Its founder was Yuri Dolgoruky, and during the reign of Prince Vasily Yaroslavovich the city was considered the capital of North-Eastern Rus'. It was at this time that Kostroma flourished: monasteries, temples and other architectural attractions were built. During the reign of Catherine II, Kostroma received its own coat of arms as one of the first Russian cities. Today, its appearance miraculously combines ancient architectural structures and modern buildings.
One of the main historical attractions of the city is the Holy Trinity Ipatiev Monastery, located on the banks of the Kostroma River. It was here that the founder of the Romanov dynasty, Mikhail Fedorovich, was crowned king, for whom the monastery turned out to be a refuge during the period of Polish intervention. It is difficult to say what the monastery looked like before 1649 - an exploding barrel of gunpowder destroyed the wooden church to the ground. Today, on the territory of the monastery, tourists can see more than 10 historically significant buildings: the chambers of the Romanov boyars, the Catherine Gate, the Trinity Cathedral with a belfry, and the bishop's building. Within the walls of the monastery are kept the unique Ipatiev Chronicle, the icon of the Tikhvin Mother of God and part of the Robe of the Lord.
The Epiphany-Anastasia Monastery is also definitely worth seeing in Kostroma. It was founded by one of the students of Sergius of Radonezh in the 16th century. During troubled times, the monastery was plundered by the troops of False Dmitry II and only partially restored by the middle of the 17th century. Unfortunately, the unique frescoes made by S. Savin and G. Nikitin have not survived to this day. Today here is one of the main shrines of the Romanov dynasty - the Feodorovskaya Icon of the Mother of God.
Other city attractions:
- Shopping arcades.
- Guardhouse.
- Fire Tower.
- Romanov Museum.
- House of General Borschov.
- Museum-reserve "Kostromskaya Sloboda".
- Museum of Jewelry Art.
- Museum of Flax and Birch Bark.
- Church of the Resurrection on Debra.
- Monument to Ivan Susanin.
- Sledovo estate.
- The Snow Maiden's Tower.
At the confluence of the small river Kotorosl and the Volga in 1010, Yaroslav the Wise founded a fortress. When Moscow was occupied by the Poles, Yaroslavl became the capital of the state for some time. At the same time, cultural life and construction flourished. Craftsmen and artists from all over Russia came to the city to build churches and monasteries. Under Catherine the Great, large parks and mansions appeared, built in a new style. The city with more than 1000 years of history is one of the main points of the Golden Ring tourist route. In addition, Yaroslavl was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010.
The Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery was built in the 12th century outside the city walls as one of the defensive structures and is still considered the main attraction of Yaroslavl. A religious school operated here (one of the first in North-Eastern Rus') and a library was collected. An important value is the handwritten copy of “The Tale of Igor’s Campaign.” During troubled times, the monastery held back the onslaught of Polish troops, from here Minin and Pozharsky with the militia set off to liberate Moscow. Today on its territory you can see the Kopeyka Monument, the Blagovestnik Bell, the Uglich and Mikhailovskaya towers, and the stele “The Oath of Prince Pozharsky.”
Many have seen the Church of John the Baptist on the 1000-ruble bill, and it is located in Tolchkovskaya Sloboda. The temple was built at the expense of local merchants. An interesting feature of the church is that the main dome does not have the traditional onion shape, but is made in the shape of a concave bowl. All details of the temple are covered with grass ornaments, and scenes from the Bible are placed on 9 tiers. But the most amazing thing about the design of the Church of John the Baptist is the unique fresco painting of the 17th century.
Other attractions of Yaroslavl:
- Church of Elijah the Prophet.
- Yaroslavl Museum-Reserve.
- Kazan Convent.
- Metropolitan Chambers.
- Museum-reserve of N. A. Nekrasov “Karabikha”.
- Demidovsky garden.
- Monument to Yaroslav the Wise.
- Museum "Music and Time".
50 km from Yaroslavl there is a city, the first mention of which can be found in the “Tale of Bygone Years” (862). In order not to be confused with, it is called Rostov the Great - that is how it was named in the Ipatiev Chronicle. Since 1151, the city has been the center of the Rostov-Suzdal Principality; many architectural landmarks have survived to this day, and some were even used for filming films. For example, the Rostov Kremlin can be seen in the film “Ivan Vasilyevich changes his profession.”
Initially, the Rostov Kremlin was the residence of bishops, which is why it is sometimes called the Metropolitan and Bishops' Court. Today the ensemble includes 5 temples and other architectural attractions, surrounded by a high fortress wall. The famous Rostov bell ringing also attracts tourists here. The belfry was built in 1682-1687. Here is a bell weighing 33 tons, named “Sysoev” in honor of the father of the bell customer, Metropolitan Jonah Sysoevich.
If you want to see something unusual in Rostov, then go to the Museum of Enamel. This is what enamel was called in ancient times, and Russian masters adopted the painting technique from Byzantine craftsmen. Today the museum exhibits more than 1.5 thousand miniatures made in this style. The exhibition is located on the territory of the Rostov Enamel factory. Tourists will not only be able to listen to an interesting story from the guide about the development of the craft, but also take part in a master class on painting metal products.
What else you need to see in Rostov Veliky:
- House of Crafts.
- Museum of Rostov merchants.
- Church of the Savior at Torg.
- Church of St. John the Evangelist on Ishna.
- Avraamiev Epiphany Monastery.
- Mother of God Nativity Monastery.
- Art gallery "Horse".
Traveling along the Golden Ring of Russia, one cannot help but look into the birthplace of Alexander Nevsky. It was founded by order of Prince Yuri Dolgoruky in 1152 on the shore of Lake Pleshcheevo. It was here that the Amusing Flotilla of Peter the Great was built. Despite the small size of the city, it can compete with other settlements included in the Golden Ring in terms of the number of architectural monuments. But Pereslavl-Zalessky is interesting not only for its temples and monasteries - unusual museums will give tourists their share of positive emotions.
Nikitsky is considered one of the most ancient monasteries in the city. It was erected in the mid-12th century by order of the son of Vladimir Krasnoe Solnyshko, Prince Boris Vladimirovich. So he wanted to convert the pagans living in Pereslavl-Zalessky to the Christian faith. Nikita Stylite brought fame to the monastery. He served as a tax collector under Prince Yuri Dolgoruky and had the reputation of a self-seeker and bribe-taker. But a prophetic vision changed Nikita’s life, and he took monastic vows. They say that he had the gift of healing and exorcism. Today, on the territory of the Nikitsky Monastery, tourists will be able to see the Cathedral of the Great Martyr Nikita, the Tent and New Bell Towers, the refectory chamber with the Annunciation Church and the stone chapel. Many of the buildings, as well as the walls of the monastery, were built under Ivan the Terrible.
In the very center of Pereslavl-Zalessky there is the Transfiguration Cathedral. Construction of the temple began under Yuri Dolgoruky, and its construction was completed by the prince’s son, Andrei Bogolyubsky. According to historical data, Alexander Nevsky was baptized in the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery. Despite the fact that the temple was repeatedly remodeled, it managed to preserve the individuality and characteristic atmosphere of ancient Russian churches. Now the cathedral is undergoing a large-scale reconstruction, and you can only get inside on major Orthodox holidays.
Main attractions of Pereslavl-Zalessky:
- St. Vladimir's Cathedral.
- Blue stone.
- Nikolsky Monastery.
- Berendey's house.
- Goritsky Monastery.
- Iron Museum and Teapot Museum.
- Museum-estate "Boat of Peter I".
- Museum of cunning and ingenuity.
- Church of the Intercession.
- Russian park.
- Museum "Kingdom of Vendace".
- Feodorovsky Monastery.
The only representative of the Moscow region in the list of cities of the Golden Ring was founded thanks to Sergius of Radonezh. In fact, it was formed around the Trinity Monastery more than 700 years ago. Peasants began to settle in the surrounding area, creating entire settlements of artisans. But in 1408 the monastery was burned down during an attack by the Tatar Khan Edigei. The successor of Sergius of Radonezh, Abbot Nikon, took up the restoration of the monastery. Since 1993, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Assumption Cathedral, founded by order of Ivan the Terrible, attracts special attention from tourists. The tsar himself never saw the completion of construction - the work went on for 26 years. The best masters from Troitsk and Yaroslavl were brought in to paint the temple. The architecture of the Assumption Cathedral repeats the appearance of the cathedral of the same name in the Moscow Kremlin. The solemnity of the temple is emphasized by a five-tiered carved iconostasis, and on its other side there is a three-tiered gallery for the church choir.
In Sergiev Posad you can see not only churches and monasteries, but also interesting exhibition complexes. One of them is the “Once upon a time” museum of peasant life. The idea for the unusual exhibition belongs to local artist Viktor Bagrov. The museum is located next to his workshop in a house with carved frames. Here you can see peasant clothes made of homespun linen, clay and wooden toys, household items and decorative arts. Periodically, the complex hosts exhibitions of contemporary works by masters from Sergiev Posad.
What else to see:
- Spiritual Church.
- Bell tower of the Trinity-Sergius Lavra.
- Vvedensky and Pyatnitsky churches.
- Sergiev Posad Museum-Reserve.
- "Trading rows" on Krasnogorskaya Square.
- Church and archaeological office.
- Spaso-Vifansky Monastery.
- Exhibition hall "Bells of Rus'".
- Chernigov skete.
The first mention of the city can be found in the charter of the Lithuanian prince Olgerd in 1371. Since 1389, Kaluga became part of the Moscow Principality and became one of the main defensive outposts of the state. During the Time of Troubles, the troops of False Dmitry I, and later False Dmitry II and Marina Mnishek, found refuge in the city. The last impostor was killed and buried in Kaluga; However, it was not possible to reliably determine the burial place. Since 2016, the city has rightfully taken its place on the Golden Ring tourist route, because there are many architectural monuments of antiquity here.
If you don't know what to see in Kaluga, first of all go to the Stone Bridge. It is he who is most often depicted on postcards with views of the city and is its calling card. Its length is 112 meters, it connects 2 sides of the Berezuisky ravine in the historical center of the city. The Stone Bridge is the only structure in Russia built on the principle of viaducts of Ancient Rome. The idea of creation belongs to the architect Nikitin, and the work took only 3 years. Legend has it that it was here that Gogol drew inspiration when he described Manilov’s dreams of building a stone bridge.
Speaking about Kaluga, one cannot help but recall the father of Russian cosmonautics - K. E. Tsiolkovsky. In the house-museum dedicated to the famous scientist, tourists will be able to see memorial items, books and documents that miraculously survived the Second World War. Such famous people as Sergei Korolev and Yuri Gagarin contributed to the restoration of the exhibition. Today, in Tsiolkovsky’s house, the interiors and atmosphere that were during the scientist’s lifetime have been completely recreated, and the exhibition itself is part of the Museum of Cosmonautics.
Sights of Kaluga:
- Trinity Cathedral.
- Museum-estate "Polotnyany Zavod".
- Museum-diorama “Great Stand on the Ugra River”.
- Museum of dolls "Bereginya".
- House of the merchant Rakov.
- Chambers of Korobovs.
- Yanovsky estate.
- Vorotyn Monastery.
- St. George's Cathedral.
- Church of Cosmas and Damian.
- Temple of John the Baptist
In 2015, Kasimov was added to the list of Golden Ring cities. The fortress was founded by Yuri Dolgoruky to protect the borders of the Vladimir-Suzdal principality in 1152. The city received its current name in honor of Khan Kasim, to whom Vasily the Dark gave it in 1452. Thanks to the interweaving of two cultures - Tatar and Russian - the city acquired a unique look. Here you can see nearby Muslim mosques and Orthodox churches, Tatar mausoleums and golden-domed cathedrals.
Among the main attractions of Kasimov, it is worth highlighting the Ascension Cathedral. It was erected with donations from local merchants and manufacturers, and, as it turned out, there were quite a lot of them in the city. Previously, there was a wooden church in its place, later a stone church was built there, and it acquired its present appearance in 1862. The project was developed by architect Voronikhin. The fate of the Ascension Cathedral is similar to the fate of many church buildings. In Soviet times, a parachute tower was located on its belfry, and in the building itself there was a sports school. And only in 2002, after reconstruction, the temple was returned to the parishioners.
One of the Muslim symbols of the city, reminiscent of the reign of the Tatar princes, is the Khan's Mosque. It is visible from almost anywhere in Kasimov, and its minaret offers an amazing view of the surrounding area. The history of the Khan Mosque began in the 15th century. According to one version, the construction was started by Prince Kasim, according to another - it happened later (in the 16th century), and Khan Shah Ali was engaged in the construction. A sad fate befell the mosque during the reign of Peter I - while sailing along the Oka River, he mistook it for a Christian shrine and crossed himself. Realizing the mistake, the king flew into a rage and ordered the Horde temple to be destroyed to the ground. Today there is a local history museum here, telling about the history of the Tatar people and their culture.
What else to visit in Kasimov:
- St. Nicholas Church.
- Church of the Resurrection of Christ and the Archangel Michael.
- Tekiye of Shah Ali Khan.
- Museum "Russian Samovar".
- Shopping arcades.
- Barkov's mansion.
- Tomb of Sultan Afghan-Muhammad.
- Museum of the Utkin Brothers.
- St. Nicholas Church.
Why is the Golden Ring of Russia called that?
A tourist route with this name appeared in the 60s of the last century thanks to art critic and artist Yuri Bychkov. His material about his travels through the ancient cities of Russia was published on the pages of Soviet Culture. During the preparation of a series of essays, he independently developed a circular route from Moscow, which can be overcome without problems in 1 day. Well, the word “Golden” appeared in the name thanks to the gilded domes of churches and cathedrals, which are the main attractions of ancient cities that were once part of Vladimir Rus'.
When is the best time to travel along the Golden Ring?
You can plan a trip along the Golden Ring for almost any time of the year. But tourists who have already visited ancient cities are advised to make the trip either in late spring or early autumn. You can also see beautiful views in winter, when the ancient buildings are covered with snow. During the off-season, poor roads may make access to some Golden Ring attractions difficult.
Let's sum it up
You don't have to travel long distances to see it. Just a few kilometers from the capital, travelers will find ancient temples and ancient mansions, interesting museums and unusual exhibition complexes.
The Golden Ring, despite its “young” age by historical standards, allows you to plunge into the atmosphere of ancient Russian culture and rediscover the history of Russia.