Much is not known about Russia. While facts about their politics during the Soviet and post-Soviet times are recorded in history, Russia—the land itself—is bypassed. This is evident in the country’s tourism reports. People only seem to be interested in St. Petersburg and Moscow. Although it is understandable why tourists flock over to the said cities, what else is there to explore in Russia?
There are seven cities in Russia that make up what is called the Golden Ring. These towns serve as the actual artifacts of the rich and long history of Russia. In fact, they played quite an essential role during the time of ancient Russia. Have I gotten your attention yet?
The seven cities, located northeast of Moscow, are as follows: Vladimir, Suzdal, Ivanovo, Kostroma, Yaroslavl, Rostov and Pereslavl.
While Vladimir is not exactly the most environment-conscious of all the seven cities, it does emanate a charm of its own. The locals themselves are the attraction. In Vladimir, you will get to admire the raw beauty of Russia. However, this town does have several entertainment establishments. Apart from the usual theaters, hotels and bookstores, Vladimir also has casinos, bars and museums. Suzdal is more adhered for its idyllic country manner. The landscape is more inviting and peaceful. Ivanovo is slightly gloomier than the other cities. However, it is encouraged that tourists drop by the Palekh Village, a center for Russian-icon paintings.
In Kostroma stands the Monastery of St. Ipathy, the town’s main tourist attraction site. There is also a museum there that displays old, Russian, wooden houses. Yaroslavl is a big, industrial city so don’t expect a green environment. However, there are many interesting monasteries, cathedrals and museums that will tell you of a time before industrialization took over. Rostov has a more charming demeanor. Its streets are wider and there are ruins within the city that tell many tales. The town is beautiful and also has monasteries and museums.
The seventh town is Pereslavl. Peter the Great, one of Russia’s most famous emperors, spent his young year at this town. Perhaps what shaped his values were the town’s many monasteries. Of course, now, there are also Peter the Great attractions including the museum “Botik of Peter the Great” and Peter the Great’s Boat. There is also a garden found in 1956 hidden somewhere in this town. At the heart of this town is the Saviour-Transconfiguration Cathedral which is 850 years old.