Top 12 Must See Places in Russia

People and cities, history and culture all closely interweaved in the fate of historical country that is not on any map - Zalesye. One of the best ways to experience the true character and history of the century's old country is by taking a tour through "Golden Ring" of Russia.

"Golden Ring" is one of the most popular tourist routes for over 30 years that gives you a unique chance to learn the true historic Russia. Connected via multiple roads 12 cities, which we discuss later, create a symbolic ring and each shines with its own rich history, unique point of interest and cultural sites and together create the most memorable vacation you will ever experience.

Sergiev Posad

Currently an administrative center of Moscow oblast this city grew up around one of the greatest and most known Russian monasteries, the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra also often called "Trinity". During soviet time name was changed to hide its strong religious meaning to Zagorsky but in 1991 was restored to original, centuries old name with literal meaning of "Sergius Settlement". Some of the greatest Russian souvenirs created here by hand and can be purchased to commemorate your visit.

Pereslavl-Zalessky

City name can be translated as "Pereslavl that is located behind the woods" was founded in 1152 by Knyaz Yuri Dolgoruky with intention to become capitol of Zalesya. City was multiple times devastated by raids of Mongols and Polish invasion and still managed to retain some of the greatest historical buildings dating as far back as 1152-1157.

Rostov Velikiy

One of the oldest Russian cities with first mentioning dating to 862 as important center. In 13th century this historical gem was a capitol of one of the most prominent principalities and served in this role till integration into Moscovy in 1474. While currently this city has lost its administrative importance - its kremlin is regarded as one of the finest outside of Moscow and a must see for anyone interested to learn more about Russian history.

Yaroslavl

Founded in 1010 as an outpost for Rostov Velikiy principality this city lies in the intersection of major waterways and roads, which played important part in its growth. This city has become a de facto capital of Russia during polish invasion of 1612 and was second largest city. Multitude of ancient churches is a gravitational center of city's history topped by the oldest Russian theater - Volkov Theater established in 1750.

Kostroma

First record of the city found in 1213 but many historians believe it was founded nearly a century earlier by Yury Dolgoruky. As all other Old Russian cities it was ravished multiple times by invasions of Mongols and Polish and still managed to retain some of its greatest historical treasures. Most notable being the 5-dommed Epiphany Cathedral, which was first stone edifice in the city. Curios visitors will also want to see the 10th century relic, Byzantine icon called Our Lady of St. Theodore. First of the Russian dynasty of Romanov was blessed by this icon when he went to Moscow to reclaim the throne and it was said that just before the revolution it blackened so bad it was hardly visible - predicting the doom of dynasty.

Ivanovo

One of the old industrial centers of Russia it has long being called "City of Brides". Textile industry is the most prevalent in this city and creates a huge work force mostly comprised of women. Some of the most unique Russian tapestries can be found by visiting this cultural center.

Gus-Khrustalny

A town in Vladimir oblast that can be translated as "crystal goose". Located on Gus River this city is the oldest center of Russian glass industry founded in 18th century. Some of the most creative and unusual art works made completely out of Crystal can be found here and make a visit a true experience for any bargain souvenir hunter.

Suzdal

With recorded mentioning of the town in 1024 this city has served as capitol for several principalities. After its political importance has declined it still served as religious center with numerous monasteries and unusual high ratio of churches to its citizens. Visitors will be greatly rewarded with display of some of the most unique and oldest monasteries. City has managed to remain the look and feel of the old Russia like no any other and presents a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Vladimir

One of the oldest cities in Russia it is surrounded by controversy over its founding date. Official first record in chronics recorded for 1108 is now argued as incorrect. New interpretations of Hypatian Codex mention visit by Vladimir the Great considered to be the father of Russian orthodoxy in 990 and many argue that this date should be the official date of foundation. For the longest time this city served as capitol of Russia and presents to its visitor's great wealth of history. Some of the most notable sites to visit would include cathedrals but perhaps most importantly The Golden Gate. Originally created as a tower over main city gate it was constructed in 1158-1164 and one of the greatest monuments of Russian architecture.
Rybinsk

Considered to be one of the oldest Slavic settlements on Volga River and first noted in chronicles in 1071. Due to its strategically trading location it served as fast developing center. But what attracts attention is Neoclassical Savious-Transfuguration Cathedral build from 1838 until 1851. It was build by design of Avraam Melnikov who was preparing it for bid on the Saint Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg. After loosing the bid project was sold and implemented in Rybinsk.

Uglich

Local tradition dates its roots to 937 with first official mention in 1148. For a long time this town has served as capitol for small principalities. As border town of Muskovy it has suffered from multiple raids and still managed to retain its true cultural nativity. Multitude of churches and a long history created by Lithuanians, Tatars and multitude of Russian Tsars will make your visit truly enjoyable.

Alexandrov

As any other old Russian city filled with architectural sites its main claim to history is in its short time being the capitol of Muscovy. Ivan the Terrible has made it capitol during 3 months of December 1564 to February 1565 when church acted against his designs. After deliberate negotiations Ivan received permission to create Oprichnina and moved his court and relics to Moscow.

Whichever places in Russia you decide to visit - these 12 cities is a must see if true Russian history is what you are after. It will become your best chance to experience true character of Russian people and get a glimpse on centuries old traditions that has defined it.