Vacation in Russia

Novgorod is the oldest city in Russia and one of the best destinations for Russia tours. You will find there many historical and cultural monuments, which are of great value. The history of Novgorod dates back to the 9th century. At that time Novgorod was the most important political center for Slavic and Finno-Uric tribes.

Novgorod was the major city of Russia, which was closely connected with the  main historical events in the country. Scandinavian Prince Ruric ruled over Novgorodians for more than 750 years. Novgorodians themselves invited him, as they needed a good and wise ruler.

After adoption of Christianity, Novgorod turned into a powerful ecclesiastical center of Russia. Unfortunately, during World War II the city was turned into ruins, but Novgorodians reconstructed the destroyed parts. Nevertheless, many of the monuments of the past survived from destruction.

The church of Annunciation is one of the rare remnants of the past. The church was built to commemorate the miracle of the icon “Our Lady of the Sign”. The church was constructed in the 12th century only in 70 days.

One of the finest examples of the 15th century architecture is the Church of Peter and Paul in Kozhevniki. The façade of the church has many decorative elements. The icons from this church are preserved in the Historical Museum of Novgorod.

One of the most ancient temples in Novgorod is the Church of Transfiguration of our Savior on Ilyina street.  As the legend says the famous icon “ Our Lady of the Sign” was kept there. The church represents the 14th century architectural style in Novgorod.

I recommend visiting Novgorod on a Russian river cruise. Alternatively, you can get a Russian train ticket or one of flights to Russia.