Clik here to view.
Outer walls of Novgorod’s Kremlin.
Veliky Novgorod (Novgorod the Great) touts itself as the birthplace of Russia and is the oldest city in the country. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also known as the cradle of Russian democracy and the medieval center of trade and crafts. Despite being a city of more than 200,000 people, it has a decidedly small town feel.
Novgorod straddles the Volkhov River about 110 miles southeast of St. Petersburg and 325 miles northwest of Moscow. It has two town centers – one where the old Kremlin stands on the west side of the river and the other on the east side of the river, on the site of Yaroslav’s Court and the Former Marketplace – what used to be the center of commerce in Novgorod. There, you will also find a series of centuries-old churches, just a few of the more than 50 medieval and early modern churches in and around the city.
Clik here to view.
A few of Novgorod’s more than 50 churches.
Novgorod’s Kremlin was first mentioned as early as 1044 and was rebuilt by Ivan the 3rd in the late 15th century. It contains the oldest palace in Russia (the Palace of Facets), the oldest bell tower in Russia and oldest clock tower in the country. It is also home to the St. Sophia Cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of the best preserved churches from that era, as well as one of the oldest buildings still in use in the country. Visitors can also climb the Kokuy Tower, one of nine towers still standing, for a nice view across the city and river.
Don’t miss the Novgorod State United Museum (i.e. the town history museum), which traces the area’s history from ancient times to the present. Although there are not currently any English explanations, it is still well worth a visit to get a feel for early Russian history. Extensive displays include ancient Russian musical instruments, manuscripts, tools and a variety of religious icons from the 11th-15th centuries.
Clik here to view.
Kokuy Tower
As you plan your visit to Novgorod, don’t make the same mistake I did by visiting early in the week; many museums are closed both Mondays and Tuesdays. Rather, try to time your visit toward the end of the week or over a weekend. While it is possible to visit Novgorod as a long day trip from St. Petersburg, I recommend staying at least one night so you can take your time exploring. The city is also accessible by overnight train from Moscow and if you are visiting both Moscow and St. Petersburg on your trip, it can be a great stopover between the two cities.
- Contributed by Katie Aune
The post Novgorod, Russia’s Oldest City appeared first on Viator Russia.
