In 1967, Russian journalist and art historian Yuri Bychkov made a series of trips to ancient cities northeast of Moscow, the impressions of which he published later that year in the newspaper Soviet Culture under the title “Golden Ring“. From then on, the expression became popular and is now used to refer to a popular tourist route between the Volga and Kliazma rivers, which traditionally includes eight historic Russian cities. They are home to a staggering number of religious, historical and cultural monuments dating from the 12th to 17th centuries. It is a region of fertile land, with a privileged position on the axis of the river routes, which contributed greatly to Russia’s economic development since the Middle Ages.
Although there is no official list of cities on the Golden Ring, the following are the eight cities that are usually included on the route:
–Serguiev Posad: although this town was founded in the 17th century, its long history can be traced back to the 14th. The must-see Trinity and St Sergius Monastery, the centre of worship of the Russian Orthodox Church, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
–Pereslavl Zaleski: founded in 1152, this small town has numerous monasteries and churches, including the Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, which is now a museum.
–Rostov Veliki: one of the oldest cities in Russia, known since 862, with a beautiful kremlin that has hardly changed over the centuries.
–Yaroslavl: founded on the banks of the Volga River in the early 11th century. A city of 600,000 inhabitants, its heritage is made up of numerous monuments and churches.
–Kostroma: located at the confluence of the Volga and Kostroma rivers, it has been known since the beginning of the 13th century. The Romanovs are considered to have originated here. The Dormition Cathedral within the Ipatiev Monastery is of particular note.
–Ivanovo: The town has been recorded as early as 1608. It was an important textile centre in Soviet times, with a higher proportion of women than men, so it is often referred to as “the city of brides”.
–Suzdal: Its existence dates back to 1024. A small town of 10,000 inhabitants, it combines rural charm with numerous medieval monuments, some of which are Unesco World Heritage Sites, as well as several monasteries and museums in its Kremlin.
–Vladimir: founded in 1108. One of the most beautiful cities in Russia, its medieval cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God and the ancient gate, as well as other monasteries and churches, are a must-see.
The Golden Ring is undoubtedly one of Russia’s tourist gems, recommended to those wanting to learn about its more rural aspect, different from country’s large cities. If you’re encouraged to visit it, you will need about a week to enjoy its charms and history. Have a good trip!
By the way, for a first impression, don’t miss this spectacular video:
