Standing at the origins of the birth Russian statehood. Until 1703, it was an influential city, which for some time bore the title of the capital of northern Rus'.

Today, the surviving evidence of his great history combined into a project called "Museum-Reserve Staraya Ladoga", which is a well-known landmark Leningrad region.

Staraya Ladoga, first mentioned in the annals in 753, is located in the Volkhov district of the Leningrad region.

Today it is a small settlement near the Volkhov River with a leisurely, measured life, but several centuries ago, the interests of several states clashed here, there were irreconcilable battles for territorial dominance on water trade routes, and state decisions were made. Its coordinates: 59°59′55″ s. sh. 32°17′49″ E d.

You can get to Muzeya-zapovednik by highway; the nearest airport "Pulkovo" (St. Petersburg) is 130 km away, the nearest railroad station"Volkhovstroy-1" (Volkhov) - 15 km. From Volkhov to the village there is a regular bus N 23 with an interval of about 1 hour and a fare of 48.0 rubles. Travel time - 15-20 minutes.

To Volkhov from any Russian city can be reached by rail or road.

By train

At the Volkhovstroy station, located on Oktyabrskaya railway, stop many electric trains and trains long distance. Trains depart from St. Petersburg in this direction from Moskovsky and Ladozhsky stations, which arrive in Volkhov in 2.5 hours. The fare is from 290 rubles.

From Moscow, through the Volkhovstroy station, trains pass to Murmansk, Petrozavodsk, St. Petersburg. The trip will last from 7.5 to 14 hours. Ticket price starts from 1200 rubles. with early purchase.

By car

From St. Petersburg to the museum-reserve can be reached in 2 hours (excluding traffic jams) along the highway P-21 "Kola" of federal significance, connecting the northern capital with Karelia. The route from Moscow will pass through Tver, Valdai and Veliky Novgorod. Its length will be approximately 700 km, travel time 8-9 hours.

Weather, the best time to travel

The weather of this region is strongly influenced by the proximity of the Baltic Sea, and therefore the climate is transitional, Atlantic-continental. This means that the winter here is not severe with an average negative temperature of 10 ° C, and the summer is cool with an average thermometer reading of +17 ° C.

Daily air temperature (°C), rainfall (mm), number of sunny days in Staraya Ladoga by month:

Jan.	Feb.	March	Apr.	May	June	July	Aug.	Sept.	Oct.	Nov.	Dec.
-5,5	-4,0	-0,5	+7,0	+16,5	+19,5	+23,5	+21,0	+15,0	+6,5	+2,0	-2,5
30,5	25,0	23,0	24,0	27,5	41,0	38,5	46,0	30,0	31,5	35,0	29,0
2	0	1	8	16	16	16	17	10	5	2	1

The museum-reserve is open all year round. However, an uncomfortable stay in these places, according to experts, falls on three winter months. The rest of the time period is characterized high level comfort, more than 4.2 points on a 5-point system. The maximum is in July and August.

Attractions

The settlement with more than 1250 years of history has always attracted inquisitive people and researchers. It is known that the first archaeological excavations were carried out here at the beginning of the 18th century.

Since then, more than 160 historical monuments have been discovered, testifying to the active and eventful life of Staraya Ladoga: the layout of the streets of the 10th-11th centuries, the rarest examples of fortifications, and architectural structures.

Staraya Ladoga, whose sights were united by the museum-reserve opened here at the end of the last century, which occupied an area of ​​190 hectares, in addition to the cultural medieval layer, keeps monuments of a later time. The ongoing work of researchers and restorers is adding more and more new artifacts to the museum's collections.

Religious buildings

Staraya Ladoga has been and remains the spiritual center of Russia. Here, in a small area, many Orthodox churches were built, monasteries were opened, some of which have survived to this day.

St. George's Church

One of the oldest stone churches in Russia, the construction period of which dates back to the 12th century.

Old Ladoga. Attractions: St. George's Church.

Two of the most ancient places of worship have survived to this day in Staraya Ladoga:

• St. George's Church, built in 1164 on the territory of the fortress; it is consecrated in the name of George the Victorious as a token of gratitude for the victory over the Swedes.
• Assumption Cathedral, which is part of the Assumption Convent.

St. George's Church, although heavily rebuilt, has preserved frescoes of the 12th century, which are of the greatest value. The temple has the status of an architectural monument of the Russian Federation and is open to visitors from May 1 to October 1 in dry weather. The architecture of the small temple is typical of ancient Russian architecture; this is how all the churches in Novgorod were built.

The 4-pillar, 3-asp building ends with one central helmet-shaped dome, over which a cross is installed. The small size of the church is explained by the location of the temple: it was crowded on the territory of the fortress. The frescoes were applied to the walls and the dome simultaneously with the construction of the temple. Experts in the manner of writing determined that two groups of Greek masters worked.

Church of Demetrius of Thessalonica

On the territory of the fortress, another place of worship, dating from 1731, and set in honor of the complete victory over the Swedes. The saint, whose name the church was consecrated, was, along with George the Victorious, the most revered by the Slavs of the Middle Ages.

The wooden parish church is typical of the "klet" rural churches of that time both in size and architecture. It was built on the principle of the construction of a peasant hut, where the basis was a log house (cage). A combination of 3 or more stands was made, and the altar was given a rounded shape. The only dome is covered with aspen plowshare.

Nikolsky Monastery

The 14th century monastery, clearly visible from the motorway, consists of the following buildings:

• wall with corner towers;
• Nikolsky Cathedral of the 17th century;
• Church of St. John Chrysostom of the 19th century;
• residential buildings.

The monastery, which survived the war and troubled times, was closed in 1927, but the monks who lived here were not driven out until 1937. They continued to live and work here as part of a fishing artel. Then, after all, a local MTS was placed on the territory. The revival of the monastery began in 2002.

Dormition Convent

The monastery, founded in the middle of the 12th century, is located north of the fortress and includes main temple Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is one of the most valuable temples of the XII century. Fragments of the fence and churches of a later construction have been preserved here.

The monastery, like the Ladoga fortress, was repeatedly attacked and destroyed, but was restored again, its temples were re-consecrated.

In the first half of the 19th century, a new stage of construction work began in the monastery: a stone fence with the Holy Front Gate, a cell building, a refectory, and outbuildings were erected. The new Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross was erected according to the project of A. Gornostaev. Elderly nuns lived in 20 cells on its first floor.

All work was carried out with the money of wealthy donors: A.R. Tomilov, Count D.N. Sheremetev, Empress Maria Alexandrovna. At present, the buildings of the monastery have been partially restored, but the reconstruction has not been completed. The Assumption Monastery is also known for the fact that from 1718 to 1725, Emperor Peter I kept his first wife Evdokia Lopukhina in captivity here.

Here she took the tonsure, and here she languished until the death of the monarch. The first wife of Abram Gannibal, Evdokia Gannibal, lived in the monastery for almost 30 years. Under Nicholas I, Decembrist wives were forcibly sent to live here.

The most interesting museums

In Staraya Ladoga there is a large "Staraya Ladoga Historical, Architectural and Archaeological Museum-Reserve", which includes many buildings, monuments and exposition rooms. There are more than 200 thousand units of the most valuable artifacts in the storage facilities.

Address: Volkhovskiy prospect, 19. It is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (until 5 p.m. in winter), the day off is Monday.

Its permanent exhibitions are:

• in the gate tower: historical section from the Neolithic to our time;
• in the house of the merchant Kalyazin: archaeological and ethnographic sections.

The museum has exhibition areas where temporary exhibitions take place. In recent years, much attention has been paid to the reconstruction of historical events. This show takes place in summer time at large cluster tourists.

Price:

	Full ticket, rub.	Reduced ticket, rub.
Entrance to the fortress	50	20
Ticket to all museum expositions	200	100
Visit the exhibition	30	20
Inspection of frescoes in St. George's Church	80	50

Excursions

The staff of the reserve conduct excursions around the Staraya Ladoga Fortress and its environs.

Developed and offered to visitors following programs:

Name	List of visited objects	Full cost, rub./person
"Old Russian city of Ladoga"	Defensive structures, a tour of the museum expositions in the Gate Tower and Kalyazin's house, acquaintance with the Nikolsky Monastery	400
"Holy Mansions"	A story about all the monasteries that existed in Ladoga with a visit to two surviving ones.	150
"Staraya Ladoga - a page of history"		350
"On the roads of medieval Ladoga"	Acquaintance with fortifications, visiting two monasteries.	250

Monuments and monuments

Staraya Ladoga, the sights of which are monuments ancient civilization and modern sculptures, keeps both legends and true facts of its centuries-old history with equal care.

Monument to Rurik and Oleg

In 2015, on the oldest street in the village of Varyazhskaya, mentioned in the annals of the 15th century, the country's first monument to the "founders of Russian statehood" was opened. The sculptor O. Shorov depicted two princes, Rurik and Oleg, leaning on a shield - a symbol of the power and strength of the Russian people.

Historians have long proved that Rurik, who was called to reign, and his successor Oleg, who became regent for a minor heir, laid the foundation for the creation of the Russian state. Rurik, having set foot on Russian soil and assessing the strategic position of this place, placed the city of Ladoga here.

Then he moved up the Volkhov and settled on the Rurik settlement, and later built New town(Novgorod the Great). Under Rurik, internal strife decreased, Russian lands expanded, and the territory defense system began to improve. The word "Rus" also came along with him.

So they called the rowers of the Scandinavian boat, then they began to call the guards of the princes, and after that all the Eastern Slavs, their lands and the state. Rurik died in 879 after 17 years of reign. His son Igor was still a small child, and a relative of Rurik, Oleg, who lived until that day in Ladoga, began to rule the country.

Oleg continued the policy of the prince, uniting Novgorod with Kiev, conquering new territories, setting up Russian cities in all lands. For wisdom and luck, he received the nickname Prophetic. Oleg died in Ladoga, Novgorod or Kyiv. Everywhere there are his graves, but it is not known which of them is genuine.

Sopki tract (archaeological site)

Not far from the village, on the left bank of the Volkhov, a complex of three burial mounds dating back to the 9th-10th centuries has been preserved. This place is called the Sopki tract, it is shrouded in legends and secrets. In those distant times, our ancestors buried princes, nobility, brave warriors in bulk burial grounds. It is believed that the remains of the great Novgorod and Kyiv prince Oleg lie in one of them.

He died from the bite of a poisonous snake. The true burial place of the great old Russian prince is unknown. 3 cities claim this: Ladoga, Novgorod and Kyiv. Archaeologists can neither confirm nor refute these points of view. The controversy over this has not subsided to this day.

falcon sculpture

The locals have a special attitude towards this strong and freedom-loving bird. A diving falcon is depicted on the coat of arms of the settlement. And recently, a small sculpture of a bird taking off, spreading its wings wide over a stone, was placed on Varyazhskaya Street. The image of a noble falcon personifies the unity of the inhabitants of Staraya Ladoga with nature.

architectural structures

Staraya Ladoga has the oldest architectural and historical structure, which is part of the museum-reserve. This attraction is the defensive structures of the Old Ladoga fortress, which is called the "calling card" of northern Rus'.

Old Ladoga fortress

The strategically impeccable position for the defense of Russian lands where the Ladozhka River flows into the large, navigable artery of the Volkhov was noticed by Prince Rurik, who was called by local residents in 862 to reconcile the warring tribes. He ordered to build a city here.

The construction of the defensive structure at the turn of the X-XI centuries is attributed to Prince Oleg. The first wooden fortress, given the number of people who wanted to own the exit from the Baltic Sea into the depths of Russian lands, did not stand for long.

The stone fortification, which was difficult for that time, began to be erected in 1114 under the guidance of a local resident, who, according to chronicle documents, was called Pavel the Posadnik. On bulk ramparts with a height of more than 3.5 m and a width at the base of up to 20 m, powerful fortress walls were erected, towering 8 m above the ground.

The walls, built of natural local flagstone, were united on top by a wide, 2-meter passage, which made it possible to quickly change position during the battle. Inside the fortress there was always a supply of provisions and weapons necessary in case of a siege.

At the end of the 15th century, the complicated relations between Russia and Sweden prompted the Moscow government to undertake a large-scale reconstruction of the fortress.

Here appeared combat, advanced far beyond the walls, towers in the amount of 5 pieces:

• Klimentovskaya;
• gate;
• rolling;
• Arrow;
• Secret.

They were located along the perimeter, creating not only increased defense capability, but also a menacing view of the entire structure. At the same time, the walls were additionally reinforced with boulders, their height increased to 12 m. Later, a secret passage to the Volkhov was dug, and a well was dug in the Tainichnaya tower, connected by pipes to the river.

The renewed fortress of the times of Ivan III was a formidable, well-equipped fortification. The fortress was repeatedly subjected to enemy siege, was captured more than once, but each time returned back to the hands of the Russians. She survived the last assault in 1701.

At the end of the Northern War, Peter I, who significantly expanded the territory of the state to the north, ordered:

• to deprive Ladoga, which has lost its strategic importance, since 1703 of the status of a city and its own coat of arms;
• rename it to the village "Staraya Ladoga";
• the local population was ordered to move to the newly built trading city of Novaya Ladoga.

Today, restoration work on the restoration of the ancient fortress has not yet been fully completed. However, the main objects: towers, walls with passages, internal buildings invite visitors to view. Museums, exhibitions, Orthodox churches operate here.

Manor "Uspenskoe"

A two-story rectangular building made of red brick adjoins the outer side of the Assumption Monastery. It is in a deplorable state and gives the impression of a half-abandoned hostel. In fact, this is the country estate of A.R. Tomilin, an art connoisseur, collector and patron of the 19th century.

Many of his artist friends came to Staraya Ladoga to rest and to the open air: I.K. Aivazovsky, O.A. Kiprensky, A.G. Venetsianov, N. K. Roerich, B. M. Kustodiev and others.

Collection of A.R. Tomilina was known for her value, in addition to paintings, she included etchings by Rembrandt. In 1918 it was confiscated and completely transferred to the Russian Museum. Today it is impossible to get into the building, but there is an opportunity to walk through the manor park.

Houses of merchants Kalyazins

On Varyazhskaya Street, whose name has been preserved since the 15th century, there are two houses. Their construction dates back to the 19th century. They once belonged to a local merchant family. The stone house made of Eliseevsky brick combined the functions of housing and a trading shop.

Wooden and brick houses are in good condition, they are part of the museum-reserve. Until the completion of the reconstruction of the Gate Tower of the fortress, permanent expositions were located here: “Merchant Life” and “Archaeology of Ladoga”. After the exhibition was moved to the main territory of the Old Ladoga ensemble, the houses are still empty.

natural attractions

Staraya Ladoga, whose sights are not only man-made, but also created by nature, is attractive for country rest nature, walks, sports.

Volkhov River

Volkhov - major river in the north-west of the country it connects two lakes: Ilmen and Ladoga. Its length is 224 km, on this way it collects the waters of many tributaries and flows in a powerful channel. On its banks are such cities as Veliky Novgorod, Kirishi, Volkhov, Novaya Ladoga and the famous village of Staraya Ladoga.

The Volkhov was part of the route "from the Varangians to the Greeks", its banks were densely populated by Slavic tribes. He also received his name from Slavic legends - that was the name of the eldest son of Prince Sloven, who, according to legend, founded Veliky Novgorod.

Today, the Volkhovskaya hydroelectric power station stands on the river, which regulates the flow of water. Ancient chronicles claim that before the river could change the direction of the flow depending on weather conditions. Volkhov - favorite place recreation for fishing enthusiasts. Breams, crucians, burbots, catfish, pikes and other river fish are found here.

caves

Downstream of the Volkhov, not far from the mound of Prince Oleg, there are man-made caves. In the 19th century, industrial production of white, quartz sandstones took place in these places, the formed underground adits were abandoned after the mines were closed.

No one knows how far the underground labyrinths stretch. Documents and maps have not survived, no one dares to go deep into the dangerous object, some of the corridors have collapsed. The caves may be of interest to tourists for a superficial inspection: bats live in the dungeon and winter here.

Gorchakovsky waterfall

In the village of Gorchakovshchina there is the highest, four-meter waterfall in the Leningrad region.

It is located on a small tributary of the Volkhov, where it makes its jump from a cliff to the bottom of a ravine.

Itinerary for sightseeing on your own for 1 day

For a one-day trip around Staraya Ladoga, you can make the following route:

• Start exploring the fortress and its historical monuments from 10 am (opening of the museum-reserve) and get acquainted with the defensive structures, the exposition in the Gate Tower, visit St. George's Church and, if it is open, the Church of Dmitry Solunsky.
• On the way to the Assumption Monastery, you can see the houses of the merchant Kalyazin, the Uspenskoye estate.
• Tour of the Nikolsky Monastery for men with its main temple.
• After lunch in a local cafe, you can take a walk to the burial mounds (the burial place of Prince Oleg), walk along the river bank to the caves.
• The ancient Assumption Monastery with its temples, buildings and stories about events and inhabitants can be left to complete the journey.

Hotels

Staraya Ladoga, whose sights are located in a picturesque place, provides tourists with the opportunity to stay in the village for an overnight stay, a few days or spend a vacation in the nature of the Leningrad Region. For this, a hotel works here, there is guest houses. 10 km from the village are the cities of Novaya Ladoga and Volkhov, where the choice of hotels is much larger.

Hotel Staraya Ladoga

The hotel is located in the center of the village, 10 min. walk from the bus stop, making flights to Volkhov. His address: st. Sovetskaya, house 6. Free wireless Internet is available on the territory of the hotel, next to the building there is a football field and a cafe. The hotel has a shared kitchen.

At the choice of guests, you can check into a separate 1-4-bed room or pay for a place in a shared room for 4 people. Individual rooms are furnished with single or double beds, wardrobe, TV. For "Standard" rooms, a bathroom with a shower is located in the corridor, "Junior Suites" are equipped with a private bathroom.

The cost of the room is 1600-2300 rubles. Shared rooms are equipped with bunk beds, the cost of a bed is 500 rubles.

Guest house "Barskiy"

The recreation complex is located at: Staraya Ladoga, microdistrict "Barsky", house 11. It offers a private area with parking, a terrace, a barbecue area. There is a shared lounge for evening entertainment. The location of the guest house is convenient for sports: cycling, hiking and skiing. There is access to the ski slope.

The house for 8 people is furnished with 3 bedrooms and a common living room. There is a bathroom. You can rent individual rooms and the whole house. The cost of the house is 8000 rubles.

Cottage Izvoz

Cottage for rent for 6 people with 3 bedrooms and 2 living rooms. All rooms are furnished and equipped with household appliances. On the territory there is a recreation area with a barbecue area.

The house stands on the bank of the river, there is a "black" bath. If necessary, a transfer or sightseeing trip to the surrounding area will be organized. The cost is 8000 rubles.

Where to eat

There are no public catering establishments with a high level of service in the village. But no one will go hungry here. Small cafes with delicious, homemade food offer a menu with Russian cuisine.

Cafe Staraya Ladoga

The cafe is located on Volkhovskiy Prospekt, at 24. The pleasant, cozy atmosphere of the institution, friendly waiters and a menu sufficient for a snack or a solid lunch encourage visitors to leave positive reviews. It is especially recommended to try dumplings, hodgepodge (“like from the oven”) and blueberry tea here.

Cafe "Prince Rurik"

On st. Culture, 3 there is a small cafe that specializes in both national and European cuisine. Tourists who have been here, for the most part, speak positively about the quality of food and portion sizes.

Staraya Ladoga is a village where a lot of ancient and valuable monuments are located in a small area. No less interesting sights can be seen in its vicinity: Lyubshanskoe settlement, Volkhov hydroelectric power station, the Pobedishche tract.

Video about the settlement of Staraya Ladoga

Overview of the settlement of Staraya Ladoga:

Staraya Ladoga, the ancient capital of Rus', is a legendary place in the Leningrad region, mentioned more than once in ancient Russian chronicles. If you believe the legends, it was here that Rurik first came to reign, it was from here that the path of the Varangian princes to Kiev, to the construction of Rus' began, it is here that the grave of Oleg the Prophet, the first strong prince of Kievan Rus, is located. Everything in Staraya Ladoga literally breathes history, the history of the original, glorious and valiant.

In contact with

Staraya Ladoga attractions

Those who are interested in medieval history, who love the calm beauty of temples and monasteries, who appreciate a quiet rest in the bosom of nature should go to Staraya Ladoga. The question "Staraya Ladoga what to see?" definitely won't happen.

Secular and religious architectural landmarks

Once Staraya Ladoga was a large trading city. Goods were brought here from Slavic and Lithuanian lands, and from Scandinavia. Now this Small town, rather, even a village in the Volkhov district of the Leningrad region (see: Staraya Ladoga on the map).

The complex includes the following attractions:

• reconstructed fortress with towers;
• Church of Demetrius of Thessalonica.

The main attraction of Staraya Ladoga, of course, is the Staraya Ladoga Fortress. The first fortress, wooden, was erected on this site as early as the 10th century, in the 12th century, by order of the Novgorod prince Mstislav the Great, it was lined with stone, in the 15th century it was rebuilt and fortified again. The tower had 5 towers, the thickness of the walls was more than 5 meters. The fortress was a border fortress and more than once passed from hand to hand, and only after the Peace of Stolbov in 1617 (after the Time of Troubles) did it finally become part of the Muscovite state. In the 18th century, the fortress lost its strategic importance and began to slowly deteriorate.

By the beginning of the 20th century, it was completely destroyed; it was only restored at the end of the century. Two towers, Klimentovskaya and Vorotnaya, and the wall between them have now been completely rebuilt. Most of the walls still resemble ruins, though very picturesque. You can see the well-preserved ancient masonry.

The Gate Tower now houses the museum of the Old Ladoga Fortress. The exposition is very interesting. Items found in Staraya Ladoga during excavations are stored here. Some of them belong to the Stone Age.

Important . The museum is open from 10.00 to 17.00 every day except Monday.

Inside the fortress is St. George's Church of the XII century. This church in Staraya Ladoga is the only one of the 8 churches of the pre-Mongolian period that has been preserved almost completely. On the walls of the temple, magnificent, authentic frescoes have been preserved: “The Ascension of the Lord”, “The Miracle of George about the snake”. There is a legend according to which it was in this temple that Alexander Nevsky lit up his sword before the battle with the Swedes.

In the church of Dmitry Thessalonica, which is a complete copy of the church that has been standing in Staraya Ladoga since the 17th century, the local history museum of Staraya Ladoga currently operates. Both it and the wooden temple are definitely worth a look. The modern (conditionally) temple was erected in 1901.

Earthen hillfort

The settlement adjoins the fortress from the south (judging by the map). According to archaeologists, it is very old, the finds made here date back to the 9th-10th centuries. It is noteworthy that some items are clearly of Arab origin. This suggests that Staraya Ladoga was a transit point. It was from here that goods were transported to Hedyby, the main trading city of medieval Scandinavia. At present, the foundations of several houses have also been discovered. The area of ​​Zemlyanoy Gorodishche is still being explored.

Earth ramparts were erected around the settlement in the 16th century and renovated in the 17th. This suggests that the old settlement still existed at that time.

Holy Assumption Monastery

The cult building (in the literal and figurative sense of the word) is the Holy Assumption Monastery and the Assumption Church. Initially, it was male (the monastery of Simeon the God-Receiver), but then it was handed over to the nuns. Assumption Church was built in the XII century. Some fragments of authentic frescoes of that time have been preserved here. It is known that it was in this monastery that the first wife of Peter the Great, Evdokia Lopukhina, died, that it was here that the wives of the Decembrists, who wanted to follow their husbands to Siberia, were exiled.

Another attraction is the Uspenskoye estate. The estate was built at the end of the XVIII - early XIX centuries. The main object here is the so-called Schwartz House, a stone wing, which kept a unique collection of paintings and drawings by Rembrandt. It is known that the guests of this estate were O. Kiprensky, I. Aivazovsky, N. Roerich. The entire collection of paintings stored here was transferred to the Leningrad Russian Museum in 1918.

Important. To visit the fortress, temple and museums, it will be enough to purchase a single ticket, since all these objects belong to the same museum-reserve. Entrance to the monasteries, of course, is free.

In the St. Nicholas Monastery, founded in the 13th century (according to legend, it was founded by Prince Alexander Nevsky immediately after the battle on Ladoga), part of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is kept (in the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker - the main church of the monastery). It is also worth looking at the bell tower and the Holy Gates, beautifully made by Tikhvin masters.

Another attraction of the monastery is the Church of the Nativity of John Chrysostom, built in the style of Byzantine early Christian basilicas.

Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist

Local residents believe that the church stands exactly on the spot where St. Apostle Andrew the First-Called established his fifth cross, thus consecrating the entire path, which in the future will be called "from the Varangians to the Greeks."

For the inhabitants of Staraya Ladoga, this church is the main one. It is here that they come during the main Orthodox holidays. The stone temple was built in the 17th century on the site of an old, wooden one, erected in the 12th century. It is believed that the church was the central temple of the John the Baptist Monastery that used to stand here.

Important. Not far from this church in Staraya Ladoga is the holy spring of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa with a font. This is a place of pilgrimage for all Christian tourists coming to Staraya Ladoga.

Varyazhskaya Street and Craft Sloboda

Varyazhskaya street is considered the oldest street in. Archaeologists have found that this place began to be settled in the 9th century. Currently, on this street there is a monument to the falcon Rareg (a totem of the Rurik family), a monument to Rurik and Oleg the Prophet (it is interesting that the Rareg falcon is also a symbol of Staraya Ladoga) and a chapel, which was erected in 1913 on the foundation of the old (XII century) Spasskaya churches.

The Archaeological Museum is also worth a visit. It is located in the house of the merchant P.V. Kalyazin, which in itself is historically significant object(also located on Varangian street). The exposition of the museum is very rich. Here are stored finds relating to the Neolithic period, and to the early and late Middle Ages. Interestingly, in the house of his brother, the merchant A.V. Kalyazin, there is the Museum of Merchant Life. The exposition includes household items, clothes, and goods traded by the Ladoga region merchants.

Craft freedom - the best place to relax after walking around the city. This is a reconstructed old-fashioned farmstead, where the artist-restorer and his family live. Here you can buy a variety of souvenirs, as well as drink tea from a samovar with pies from a Russian oven.

Staraya Ladoga photo

Be sure to take a photo as a keepsake at a small stele erected in honor of the 1250th anniversary of Staraya Ladoga.

Natural attractions of Staraya Ladoga

The nature around Staraya Ladoga is simply amazing: fields, forests, the Volokhov River, but there are places that are definitely worth a visit, even if the road to them is not easy.

Monument of nature "Staroladozhsky"

The main natural attraction of the city is the natural monument "Staroladozhsky". The most interesting here

• caves,
• Sopki tract,
• the so-called geological outcrops near the banks of the Volokhov River.

There are only three caves:

• Baby;
• Staraya Ladoga;
• Tanechkina (it is in this cave that whole flocks of bats gather in winter).

The Sopki tract is very a nice place, from here you can admire the beauty of the Volokhov River and Staraya Ladoga from a bird's eye view. There are also ancient burial mounds here. Historians and local historians believe that under one of them is the grave of Oleg the Prophet himself.

Various kinds of paleontological fossils can be seen at geological outcrops on the banks of the Volokhov River. It is best to go here with an escort from the locals. They will be able to show the most interesting of what was discovered here by archaeologists and geologists.

Gorchakovsky waterfall

Gorchakovshchinsky waterfall is also a beautiful natural attraction. The waterfall is not very big, but the area around is very picturesque (it is best to go here either with the locals or using an accurate map of the area). By the way, it is worth taking a walk to it in winter. The frozen streams of the waterfall are a very picturesque sight.

Staraya Ladoga is a place that must be visited by all those who are interested in ancient history Russian state.

Staraya Ladoga, whose sights invariably attract thousands of tourists every year, is a large village. It is located in the Volkhov municipal district. This territory belongs to the Leningrad region. Ladoga was considered a city until 1703. Recently the village celebrated its anniversary - the "ancient capital of Northern Rus'" turned 1250 years old. Currently, Staraya Ladoga is the local administrative center. Let's take a closer look at the history locality, we will find out what to see in Staraya Ladoga.

General information

This city was previously of great importance for the development Ancient Rus'. Everyone who has visited this place knows that already in the middle of the 8th century a settlement was formed here. Ladoga was considered a fortified hub on major trade routes. Also this place is the first capital of Rus'. It was here that Rurik arrived to reign, before going to Novgorod. Currently, Staraya Ladoga is a village located one hundred and forty kilometers from St. Petersburg. Modern life in the village is different from what it was in former times. Now it is associated with measured and calm. What attracts tourists to Staraya Ladoga? Attractions here are presented in enough in large numbers. Basically, these are monuments of ancient architecture. Among them, the Staraya Ladoga fortress on the Volkhov River stands out. Its architecture, dating back to the 16th century, has been preserved in this form to this day. The Nikolsky male and Assumption female monasteries of Staraya Ladoga are very popular with tourists. It is believed that the latter was imprisoned, which was the first wife of Peter I. You can also visit the church of Ion the Baptist and the burial mound of Prophetic Oleg. There are two popular museums in Staraya Ladoga: local life and archaeological. It is unlikely that an inquisitive traveler will be able to leave these sights without attention.

Brief historical background

The ship repair and production workshops of Zemlyanoy Gorodishche are the oldest known buildings. They were built from logs. According to dendrochronological data, the wood used for the construction was cut down in the middle of the 8th century. It is assumed that people from Northern Europe worked on their construction. Many archaeological excavations have been carried out in this area. According to the data received, the first Ladoga settlement was founded and settled by the Scandinavians. At the same time, E. A. Ryabinin believes that they were the Gotlanders. Last year, on the territory of Staraya Ladoga, they again held a comb, which dates back to the Merovingian era. This is presumably the 7th century AD.

Further development

The first settlement included several buildings. Pillar structures had analogues in Northern Europe. They were about two kilometers south of At that time this region became a kind of center of intersection of the interests of the ancient Germans and Slavs, as well as local Finno-Balts. Later, the Ilmen Slovenes destroyed the Ladoga settlement. Later, this area was built up with structures that had a log structure. The people who became the first inhabitants of Ladoga and those who settled here later had completely different cultural traditions. There was no continuity between them.

Construction of the first fortress

Ladoga developed as a trade and craft settlement. In the 9th century, during internecine wars, it was once again destroyed. Only a decade later, the first fortress was erected here. Its design was similar to the neighboring Lyubshanskaya. Ladoga from a small trade and craft settlement has turned into a typical city of Ancient Rus'. Her total area was about twelve hectares.

Meaning

For a major trade route, the city was one of the important points. During regular excavations carried out on the territory of Staraya Ladoga, a birch bark scroll was found. The image of a boat was imprinted on it. It is mentioned that the grave of the Prophetic Oleg is located here. At the same time, the Kiev version is strikingly different from this one. She suggests that the burial is located on Mount Shchekovice. At the very end of the 10th century, Ladoga was attacked by the Varangian Eirik. Later he became the Norwegian ruler. The very first fortress stood in Ladoga for more than a century. She was destroyed.

Old Ladoga fortress

It was founded in 1116. The order to create a stone fortress was given by the posadnik Pavel. At present, this place has become the "heart" of Staraya Ladoga. The ancient building is located on the site where the Elena River flows into the Volkhov. The Old Ladoga fortification was strategically importance during the period This place was considered the only possible harbor for a shelter sea ​​vessels who were not able to overcome the rapids of the Volkhov. The first local fortification was built during the time of Prophetic Oleg. Currently, the Staraya Ladoga Fortress is open to the public.

Renaming

At the beginning of the XVIII century, Peter I founded which was located at the mouth of the Volkhov. The former settlement lost its city status and the right to use its own coat of arms. The place was given a new name - "Staraya Ladoga". Excursions to the settlement, which are held today, will not leave indifferent any lover of ancient Russian history. Local cultural center the estate "Uspenskoe" was considered. She was very close to the settlement. Many famous people spent their time here.

Modern realities

In 2003, the sights of which do not lose their relevance to this day, celebrated their anniversary. At that time, the settlement existed for 1250 years. This event attracted the attention of the press and authorities. The President gave special orders to prepare for the celebration of the anniversary. Vladimir Putin visited the village twice. Today one-day trips are organized in Staraya Ladoga excursion routes. During them you can get acquainted with the history of the village, the main events that took place here. The cost of the trip is 1090 rubles.

Museum "Staraya Ladoga"

In the 70s. restoration work was going on here. They were led by A. E. Ekk. Soon renewed expositions were opened. Also, the first visitors were able to look at the exhibits of the local history museum. Later, excavations began on the territory of the ancient structure. They were carried out by an archaeological expedition, led by A. N. Kirpichnikov. In 1984, the museum received the status of a historical and architectural reserve of federal significance.

Reconstruction

The Gate and Klimentovskaya towers were restored back in Soviet period. There are three more to be reconstructed. A few years ago, the restoration of the Arrow Tower began. The concept of its reconstruction is as follows: it is required to make sure that the superstructure protects the masonry from further destruction. It is assumed that new tower will turn into a kind of conservation cap for the surviving historical building. Currently, work on the reconstruction of buildings continues.

Dormition Convent

What else is Staraya Ladoga famous for? The sights, the photos of which are presented in the article, are not only examples of ancient Russian architecture. Many of them are closely connected with the religious life of the population. This is the Assumption Convent. The first mention of it in written sources dates back to the 16th century. Assumption Church is the main attraction of this place. It is an architectural monument of the XII century, along with the church of St. George. The latter is located directly in the fortress. The rest of the parish buildings were built in later periods. In the XIII century, this temple served as a dungeon. The monastery became a place of exile for the wife of A.P. Hannibal. At the end of the 20th century, the building was empty. The monastery fell into disrepair in a short period of time. It is currently functioning again.

Festival

What else attracts tourists to Staraya Ladoga? Attractions, of course, are not the only thing that attracts many visitors here every year. A special festival is also held in the village. This event is organized in Staraya Ladoga every year. Its participants are members of craft clubs from many regions of the country. The festival will never leave indifferent lovers of the culture of Europe and the north of Rus'. The event lasts for several days. At this time, there is a field camp. Participants act out the capture of the fortress, arrange demonstration fights, compete in archery and show their skills in clay modeling. Not only the guests of the festival, but also the residents of Staraya Ladoga dress appropriately. Thus, the event becomes more realistic. Currently, the festival is actively developing. Its program is being improved and every year more and more participants come here.

No one will argue that our fatherland is rich in unique places.

Take, for example, Staraya Ladoga in the Leningrad region and its sights.

Walking through this village, you can not only relax, but also plunge into the history of our country, learn a lot of new and interesting things. You can talk for hours about this village, which was once a formidable and mighty Russian capital city ...

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Where did the name come from

No one can say for sure what served as the name of the settlement. After all, the others are also called geographic features: river, lake. They got their name before the settlement appeared.

Staraya Ladoga is the oldest trade and craft settlement in the Northwest. People lived here in the Neolithic period, but the official date given by archaeologists is 753

There are many variations on the origin of the name. In short, some researchers believe that the word is of Scandinavian origin, because the Scandinavians were the first to master this place, almost two decades earlier than the Slavs. Judging from this fact, the word is translated as a low area near the river.

Russians began to settle here in the middle of the 13th century. The settlement played an important role: master node linking trade sea routes. Moreover, Staraya Ladoga at one time was the first capital city of Rus'. Rurik reigned in it. That is why the flag of Staraya Ladoga rural settlement they placed a trident in the form of a diving golden falcon - a sign of the Rurikovich. During the excavations, a birch bark scroll was found, on which a boat was depicted. Who knows, maybe this sea transport is a symbol that gave the name to the settlement.

Geographic location

It should be noted that at the beginning of the 18th century, Staraya Ladoga was considered a city. Today it is a large village that attracts not only the inhabitants of Russia with its unique sights. An endless stream of tourists flows to Staraya Ladoga. The village belongs to the Leningrad region, Volkhov municipal district.

The geographical position of Staraya Ladoga was very advantageous. It is located in that place on the way from the "Varangian to the Greeks", which is almost impossible to bypass. Even if the merchants sailed to the Volga across the Svir River, their path still lay along south coast Lake Ladoga, that is, past Staraya Ladoga. Staraya Ladoga was a trading center

Today the ancient village is a museum-reserve. Beginning in 1971. In 1984, it became a historical and architectural museum, and at the same time received the title of a museum-reserve of federal significance.

Many tourists who dream of seeing amazing places are thinking about how to get there: on public transport or by car? From St. Petersburg to the village 120 km.

This can be done in different ways:

1. By car: An asphalt road passes through Staraya Ladoga, which is called differently - M18, E-105 and "Kola Route".
2. By train:(ticket price from St. Petersburg is about 200 rubles) to Volkhov, then transfer to the bus. There is no rail traffic to the ancient village. Buses run 3 times a day.

As you can see, it is not so easy to get to the village, but tourists are not afraid of difficulties.

Attractions

Today, life in the village is not much different from how other Russians live. Although it should be noted that everything is measured and calm in it. Why do tourists, not afraid of difficulties, come here in streams? There is nothing to be surprised. The inhabitants of the village, despite the past centuries, managed to preserve the unique architecture of their settlement in its original form. No wonder Staraya Ladoga often became an object of inspiration for artists - paintings dedicated to it were painted by many eminent Russian painters.

Staraya Ladoga - a small village in the Leningrad region with a great past, was once one of the ten largest Russian cities. Today, it is distinguished from other villages by an ancient fortress, standing on the high bank of the Volkhov, and several ancient monasteries and churches beyond its borders.

There is something to see in winter and summer. Tourists, arriving in the village, visit monasteries, churches, museums. They admire mounds, caves and others amazing places. After visiting these memorable places, you better understand the history of the country, become an accomplice of distant events.

Any person who visits this museum-reserve feels attention and care. There are places to stay for every taste and budget, there are cafes, restaurants that cook delicious food.

It is worth noting: accommodation on the territory of the museum-reserve costs from 1350 rubles per person.

Most often tourists visit:

• cafe "Prince Rurik";
• cafe "Ladoga Compound";
• cafe "Ladya".

Information about hotels, catering places can be found on the official website and in guidebooks.

If ordered tour bus, then the cost:

• adult ticket from 1650 rubles;
• preferential from 1550 rubles;
• for children from 1250 rubles.

In this case, the guide will show the most important sights. In addition, tourists can take water from the holy spring of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa with them.

There are many presentations on the Internet on the topic of what to see and where to go for tourists. We will try to tell you about everything that is worth a look when you arrive in the old village.

Defensive structures

The settlement served not only as a junction of sea routes. It was located on the border with other states, so it had another important role - the defense of the borders of Rus' from the attacks of enemies. It is clear that it was not possible without the construction of reliable fortresses with thick walls.

The walls, built of limestone on lime mortar, reached a height of 8 meters. The Ladoga stone fortress outlined the path in defensive architecture, which became widespread only a century later. It turned out to be invulnerable to the Swedes and Germans, and during the XII-XV centuries it reliably defended the northern Russian lands.

Unfortunately, many of the fortresses have sunk into oblivion, there are not even memories left of them. But travelers can visit unique place, imagine yourself in the place of your ancestors who defended the city of Staraya Ladoga by visiting the Staraya Ladoga fortress.

Ancient Old Ladoga Fortress

On the opposite side of Varyazhskaya Street is the Staraya Ladoga Fortress. In ancient times, it reliably protected the settlement. The stone part of it came close to the water. The presence of the river, which served as a natural moat, did not allow the Vikings to quietly get close to the Slavs.

Staraya Ladoga Fortress - located in the village of Staraya Ladoga on the Ladoga Cape, at the confluence of the Volkhov River Ladoga

The review was carried out from four round and one square towers (gates to the fortress). Three walls were made of wood, but the earthen fortifications were powerful. The inhabitants always stocked food and water so that the defenders could hold out for a long time.

The stone fortress was laid in 1116 by order of the posadnik Pavel. Today she was in the center of the village at the confluence of the Elena and Volkhov rivers. In ancient times, it was a safe harbor for ships that could not pass through the destructive rapids of the Volkhov River. Strengthening the fortress began on the orders of Prince Oleg.

Today, the fortress can be freely visited by anyone. The standard entrance fee to the territory of the fortress is 20 rubles, a single ticket to all museums is 150 rubles.

Monasteries and temples

There are many temples and monasteries in this ancient village.

Inside the fortress there are the St. George's Church and the wooden church of Dmitry Solunsky, the St. Nicholas Monastery, the Assumption Convent, the Merchant Life Museum (the second half of the house is occupied by the post office), the St. John the Baptist Monastery. Only one temple survived from the entire monastery - the huge Cathedral of the Nativity of John the Baptist, built in 1695.

Over the centuries, many of them have lost their former greatness, fell into decay. But those that still remain are able to melt the ice of the coldest hearts.

Nikolsky Monastery

Nikolsky Monastery has been classified as a historical monument of federal significance since 74 of the last century.

The building of the monastery was erected in the year 40 of the XIII century, when Alexander Nevsky managed to defeat the Swedes on the ice of Lake Nevsky.

Founded in 1241 by Alexander Nevsky after a victorious battle with the Swedes in the Battle of the Neva at the mouth of the Izhora River, dedicated to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of the World of Lycia

Do you know that: the commander Alexander Nevsky highly honored Nicholas the Wonderworker and dedicated a new monastery to him - Nikolsky.

Over the years, there have been many troubles, even complete destruction. But believers again raised the monastery from the ruins. The building was last restored in the 19th century. With the advent of Soviet power, the monastery was closed, it housed various institutions.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Patriarch Alexy II ordered the restoration historical monument. Today, the relics of Saints Sergius and Herman are kept in the active male monastery.

On the territory of the monastery there is the Church of St. John Chrysostom, St. Nicholas Church, the bell tower. These objects attract tourists with their uniqueness and originality.

Note: There is no charge for visiting the Nikolsky Monastery. It works every day from 9.00 to 17.00. Located on Nikolskaya street, house 1.

Assumption Monastery

The exact date of the construction of the Assumption Monastery is not in any historical source. Supposed to be 15th century. It was erected on the site of the Assumption Cathedral (12th century). The monastery building and courtyard buildings can be safely called an architectural masterpiece.

The ensemble of the monastery is mentioned already in the 15th century, the date of its foundation is considered to be 1156. In 1718, the first wife of Peter I, Evdokia Lopukhina, named Elena, was transferred to the Ladoga Assumption Monastery. She stayed in the monastery until 1725

Interesting fact: the oldest Assumption Monastery was the place of imprisonment of Evdokia Lopukhina, the disgraced wife of Peter the Great.

Address: Uspensky lane, left bank of the Volkhov. The monastery is open every day from 9 am to 7 pm.

Cathedral of Nicholas the Wonderworker

The Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker belongs to the 15th-16th centuries. Volkhov plates and bricks were used for its construction. It has a height of 23 meters, its length is 21 meters, and its width, including the northern aisle, is 20 meters. By the way, the chapel was added much later, already in the 18th century. The initiator of the construction was the merchant Barsukov.

The Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is the main temple of the Staroladoga St. Nicholas Monastery. A unique monument of ancient Russian architecture of the XIII century. Not currently in use, being restored

Before going to the sea, the fishermen went to the cathedral and prayed to Nicholas the Wonderworker to be a protector during the fishing season. Near the icon was a mug for donations.

The church was never empty; people from the surrounding villages came to pray. Unfortunately, when the cathedral was closed in 1938, the icon disappeared without a trace. Where it is now is unknown ... What to say about the temple decoration: there is practically nothing left of it.

Currently, restoration is in full swing, but there is still a lot of work.

Note: tourists can enter the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker for only one hour. If you get there by bus, then it just stops at 16 Nikolskaya Street.

They accept visitors from 9.00 to 18.00. The entrance is free.

Church of Alexander Nevsky

On the embankment of the Old Ladoga Canal there is another ancient building - the Church of Alexander Nevsky. It was built on the territory of a military prison during the time of Suvorov.

The Church of Alexander Nevsky was built as a military prison in 1871 (the Suzdal regiment was stationed in Novaya Ladoga, which was once commanded by Suvorov). It was rebuilt in the old days, and now it is a utility room.

This is a two-story building. It was rebuilt after the prisoners escaped. Almost all windows were bricked up. They were pierced already in the last century.

Worth considering: Currently, the temple of Alexander Nevsky is not operating.

Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

This stone cathedral was built before the invasion of the Mongol-Tatars, it is the main temple of the Holy Dormition maiden monastery.

The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin in Novaya Ladoga used to be part of the complex of the Ioannovsky and Nikolo-Medvedsky monasteries, now abolished. Initially, it was consecrated as a temple of John the Theologian, since 1954, by the name of the chapel (1733), it has been called the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin

In its architecture there is no splendor, a lot of asceticism inherent in Christianity. At one time, portals were attached to it from the north and west.

The cathedral impresses with its decorative relief crosses. You can also see the surviving niche - golbets, intended for painting. On the dome is an old faded cross. In the inner space there are special recesses for burial.

This functioning cathedral, open to tourists, is located on Karl Marx Avenue, at 49.

Church of Alexis, man of God

The church was built in the year 31 of the 19th century on the initiative of the parishioners of the Assumption Convent. Two years later, the merchant Semyon Kalinin and other wealthy people built a stone temple with their personal savings.

The church was built in 1831 at the expense of the St. Petersburg merchant Semyon Kalinin and other parishioners of the Staraya Ladoga Assumption Monastery and belonged to him along with the cemetery. At one time, the temple was even the main source of income for the monastery.

The Soviet government ignored Orthodox church, closing it for services. The premises were used for various activities. In 2000, the church was restored by the employees of JSC "Volkhovskiy aluminum", thus almost the memory former director B. A. Alekseeva.

Take note: today it is a functioning church that welcomes parishioners and tourists. The location of the Church of Alexis is near the cemetery.

Church of George the Victorious

St. George's Church, built in the 12th century - another monument of world culture, is included in the register world heritage UNESCO.

The "visiting card" of Staraya Ladoga in general and the fortress in particular is St. George's Cathedral (canonical name - Church in the name of the Holy Great Martyr George the Victorious), built in the 1160s, was originally a monastery and ceased to be such in the 18th century. Not active now, being a museum

Two great traditions intertwined in it: Byzantine and Novgorod stone temple architecture. The temple, together with the bright head, rises 15 meters above Staraya Ladoga.

During construction, limestone slabs were alternated with plinths (a kind of brick), they were laid on a lime-cement mortar. It consisted of slaked lime and brick chips. It was also used for facade cladding. Therefore, it had a warm creamy surface, on which brown spots appeared. It seemed that the facade was made of marble slabs. Walls and other structural elements are connected with wood.

It is important to know: Currently, the Church of St. George the Victorious is not operating, it is a museum of one fresco "The Miracle of St. George about the Serpent", the oldest image of St. George the Victorious. Located on the Volkhov River.

Church of Demetrius of Thessalonica

Judging by the old records, the church was built around the end of the 9th century. Rurik ruled here at that time. The building is wooden, the interior space is divided into cages, in fact, everything is arranged in it as it was in the peasant's hut.

Modest wooden church in the name of Demetrius of Thessalonica. Currently not active, it houses a museum of peasant life

The design of the dome resembles scales, it is covered with the use of an aspen plowshare. There is nothing superfluous either in terms of architecture or decoration inside the church: simplicity and asceticism. The royal gates attract the attention of tourists, but they appeared much later - in the 16th century.

Church of Clement of Rome

The first stone church was located in Staraya Ladoga, the construction dates back to 1153. The church, which is now located in Novaya Ladoga, was moved here by order of Peter the Great, built in 1704. At first it was a wooden building, and in 1741-43 a stone building was built on the same site.

It was built from 1741 to 1743 in the style of Russian churches of the 17th century. In the 1870s, a high bell tower was added to it, which greatly distorted the appearance of the church. In 1938, a cinema was set up here, and then the building was abandoned.

Restoration was done at the end of the 19th century. The spire was updated, fixing it on a metal structure, a bell tower and an iconostasis. The work was carried out according to the project of the architect Fortunatov. The restoration was led by the elder Stolyarov and the priest Nikifor Verolsky.

The temple was closed in 1937, and a cinema was set up in it. Today it is almost destroyed, does not work. From its former grandeur, after repeated robberies, you can admire individual fragments with which the dome and walls were painted.

Good to know: the temple of Clement of Rome is located in Novaya Ladoga along Engels street, 10.

Church of the Savior of the Holy Image

Time of construction - 1763-67, erected after a wooden building burned down. The elegance of the five-domed onion attracts attention. As for the frescoes, which were previously a distinctive feature of the church, they have practically not been preserved.

The Chapel of the Savior Not Made by Hands is a non-functioning Orthodox chapel in the village of Staraya Ladoga, Leningrad Region. It is part of the monastery wall of the St. Nicholas Monastery

Under Soviet rule, the church was closed and beheaded (1935). .). The revival began in 2002. Under the leadership of Archpriest Roman Gutu, a new chapel was built, and a place appeared where parishioners now come to pray. The temple is famous for services, Sunday school.

Do you know that: The Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands is engaged in charity work (from the donations of parishioners), provides assistance to needy children and the elderly.

The temple stands on Rumbolovskaya Hill, therefore it is clearly visible from anywhere in Novaya Ladoga. Open from 9.00 to 18.00, admission is free.

Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist

This temple, located on Malysheva Hill, was built in the 15th century. At first it existed as a monastery, but after the abolition in 64 of the 18th century, a parish was opened.

The Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist is a former four-pillar five-domed cathedral of the John the Baptist Monastery, now a functioning Orthodox church with a chapel of St. Paraskeva Pyatnitsa and an octagonal pillar-shaped bell tower, located on the northern outskirts of Staraya Ladoga.

It has a cubic shape, standing on four domed pillars, with five domes and one seven-sided altar apse. The walls are decorated with bricks, there are many niches, carved platbands on the windows.

It has been closed since the 1920s and reopened in 1991 after a renovation. Assigned to Nikolsky monastery. For parishioners, liturgies are held on holidays and Sundays. Pilgrims love to visit here.

Interesting fact: from the center of the village to Pozemskaya street, 1 - only 642 meters. The parish of the Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 a.m. yesterday. You don't have to pay for entry.

Church of Basil of Caesarea

The monastery has gone through many difficult times. wooden structure often fell into disrepair. In 1618, there were only 8 monks who lived in a literally crumbling building.

The Church of Basil of Caesarea was built and consecrated in 1684-86. as a temple at the Vasilyevsky Monastery on the money of Tikhon Bestuzhev

After forty-plus years, the temple fell into complete disrepair. In 1686, voivode Bestuzhev built a new monastery with his own money. The monks lived in it until the year 64 of the 18th century, later it was abolished and a parish was opened, which still operates today.

Spring of St. Paraskeva Pyatnitsa

Paraskeva Pyatnitsa patronized merchants and church ministers. In her honor, the Assumption Convent was built (end of the 13th century). The holy spring was known in ancient times, worshiped since the 9th century. The symbols of this are Varangian crosses and crosses dating back to the X-XII, XVI centuries.

A spring in the name of St. Paraskeva Pyatnitsa under Malysheva Gora, the construction of which began in the period from 1276 to 1299. A place for water intake is equipped at the holy spring, a cross with a prayer to Paraskeva Pyatnitsa is installed, a stone font and a wooden dressing room are equipped

In the slope of the shore, going behind the temple, you can see the source.

Tourists and parishioners can:

• collect water in a specially designated place;
• take a dip in a stone font (change clothes in a wooden locker room);
• read the prayer, the text of which is on the cross.

Note: the water in the font of the spring of St. Paraskeva Pyatnitsa is icy, it seems that ice needles are pierced into the body. But no one catches a cold, on the contrary, after a while, heat spreads through the body.

Having reached the village, immediately at the entrance you need to go towards the Predtechensky Cathedral. The source is very close. There is no entry fee, but you can leave a donation.

Museums

There are many museums in the village, whose history began many centuries ago, that help to know the past of all of Russia as a whole.

Archaeological Museum

Archaeological research has not stopped for many decades. Every year there are more and more discoveries. In the archaeological museum, household items, weapons of battle, labor and much more are widely represented.

The museum is located in the two-story house of the merchant Kalyazin, located in the center of the village, near the walls of the Staraya Ladoga fortress. The building itself is quite modern - it was built in the 19th century. The exposition of the museum is so extensive that it is considered one of the most interesting in our country. Some of the museum's unique exhibits date back to the 8th century.

Lovers of antiquity collected various exhibits, but it was impossible to combine them in one place. The first exposition was presented to the court in 71 of the last century. A huge number of exhibits, their skillful presentation captured the souls of visitors. Since then, the museum has been visited by a huge number of Russian citizens and foreigners. After 13 years, the museum received the status of a federal nature reserve

The museum is located right in the Staraya Ladoga Fortress, in the Gate Tower.

Open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm. For an adult ticket - 150 rubles. Discount for children's tickets. There are also discounts for privileged categories of citizens.

Museum of Local Lore

The Museum of Local Lore is located in a house built in the 20th century by the merchant Timofeev. The audience saw the first exposition in 1987. It consists of 8 halls, in which there are various objects that help to know the life and way of life of our ancestors.

Now visitors have the opportunity to see the restored Klimentovskaya and Vorotnaya fortress towers. One of them houses the Staraya Ladoga Museum of Local Lore. In 1984, the local history museum received the status of a historical, architectural and archaeological museum-reserve of federal significance.

Works:

• in May-September every day, working hours from 9.00 to 18.00;
• in October April working hours 9.00-16.00 all days, day off Monday.

The duration of the tour is 2 hours 30 minutes.

For groups over 15 people the following fees apply:

• for an adult - 60 rubles;
• student discount for 20 rubles;
• children under 14 free of charge.

If less than 15 people arrived on the tour, then the cost of tickets increases by 15 rubles.

Note: the museum is located on Pionerskaya street, house 16.

House of merchant Kalyazin

In the very center of the village on Varyazhskaya Street, 8, you can see the house built in the 19th century by the merchant Kalyazin. After the revolution, various organizations were located here. Until 2003 - Russian Post. Then there was restoration, repair, and finally, the museum "Archaeology of Ladoga of the VIII - XIII centuries" was opened.

House of merchants Kalyazins, known as a museum of merchant life. An exposition of merchant life is now open in a wooden house on the banks of the Volkhov

In the halls you can see medieval objects, various weapons, jewelry. The model of the ship on which the Vikings arrived in Ladoga delights all visitors.

The surviving monastic and church frescoes have also been collected.

Fortress Museum

Various expositions constantly operate in the Staraya Ladoga fortress.

Museum exposition in Staraya Ladoga

You can visit museums on your own, or as part of excursion group. At the same time, the prices are acceptable, for example, those wishing to get into the program "Holy cloisters" will pay 150 rubles, the program "On the roads of medieval Ladoga" - 200 rubles, you can take a sightseeing tour of the entire fortress and learn about ancient crafts for only 250 rubles. Details should be found directly in the museum or on the official website.

Architectural monuments

There are many architectural monuments in the village, which the villagers cherish. It is impossible to tell about everyone. We present some of them.

Barracks of the Suzdal Regiment

The second half of the 18th century was marked by numerous peasant riots. Not passed such a share and Staraya Ladoga. To pacify the rebels, the Suzdal Infantry Regiment was transferred, commanded by Suvorov.

The barracks arose at the beginning of the 18th century, when Peter the Great ordered the construction of a canal here to bypass Lake Ladoga during storms. Workers lived in the buildings

At first, the soldiers were placed in private houses. It was difficult to manage the scattered army.

Suvorov initiated the construction of barracks with all the necessary buildings.

In addition to the premises for soldiers, on the same territory are located:

• stable;
• infirmary;
• officer club;
• parade ground with a shooting range;
• wooden temple.

At present, the barracks are dilapidated, but the memorial plaque, in which Suvorov is noted, is on the wall.

Take note: The monument to the Barracks of the Suzdal Regiment is located on Proletarsky Kanal Street, house 12.

If the tourist arrived by regular bus, then he will reach the barracks in a quarter of an hour. You need to go towards the exit from the village, cross the canal and turn left. The monument of antiquity will be on the right.

Gostiny Dvor building

There is no exact date of construction of Gostiny Dvor, but historians suggest that the time of construction was the 19th century. Going inside, you can see the area of ​​a quadrangular shape. Along the walls are benches where merchants used to sit.

It has a standard layout typical for buildings of this type: a quadrangle with an area inside, along the perimeter of which merchants' shops stretch, fenced off from the street by an arcade. The building is believed to have been built in the 19th century.

The house is located in Novaya Ladoga, 11 kilometers from Staraya Ladoga. Between Karl Marx Avenue and Pionerskaya Street.

reservoirs

The Leningrad region is rich in various reservoirs. There are some remarkable places in the museum-reserve.

Volkhov River

The village of Staraya Ladoga is located on the banks of the Volkhov River. The "culprit" of this name was one of the Scythian princes - Sloven. At first, of course, the name of the Magi (wizard) was given to the tribes living on the coast.

View of Staraya Ladoga from the Volkhov River during sunset

At all times the river was rich in fish. Today, tourists can do not only fishing, but also go boating along the difficult Volkhov riverbed.

Take note: tourists who are not afraid of difficulties can go by boat along the path along the Volkhov River “from the Varangians to the Greeks”.

Staraya Ladoga Canal

The Staraya Ladoga Canal, 117 kilometers long, connects the Volkhov and the Neva, while bypassing Ladoga lake. The canal begins on the Volkhov River four kilometers from the mouth and leads to the Neva.

The Staraya Ladoga Canal in the Leningrad Region. An object cultural heritage, included in the UNESCO list - however, its condition does not correspond to a high status. Experts say that the monument is threatened with complete destruction. It has not been possible to clean or repair the canal for many years

Peter the Great himself began and supervised the construction of the canal, who removed three wheelbarrows of earth with his own hands. At the same time, the tsar gave freedom to every peasant who came to work, and this was in 1719. The construction was very difficult and proceeded slowly, ending only in 1731 during the reign of Anna Ioannovna, who broke through the earthen lintel with a shovel. These tools - a wheelbarrow and a shovel were stored for a long time in a chapel built near the canal.

Ladoga lake

Lake Ladoga was called differently: "Little Sea", "Lake of Life", Ladoga. In ancient times, the lake was named Nevo, then it became known as Ladoga after the name of the fortress.

Lake Ladoga is the most big lake in Europe. Our ancestors considered Ladoga to be a sea, and they called the Varangians precisely because of this sea, and not because of the Baltic Sea

The shores and waters of the lake have experienced many events. Archaeologists have been studying the bottom of the lake for decades and have found many historical artifacts.

This is the largest lake in Europe of glacial origin. From the north there are rocks cut by skerries. There are no cliffs on the other shores of the lake. Part of the coast is sandy, part is difficult to access due to swamps. It did not always flow into the Neva, a new channel was formed after the Karelian Isthmus was raised.

It is important to know: During the Second World War, an important artery passed through Lake Ladoga - the road of life, which saved many Leningraders from starvation and death.

Other attractions

Mounds of Staraya Ladoga

The burial mounds were left from the Varangians, there are only three of them: one large, the other two are smaller. On the territory of Russia there is not one ancient monument, except for Oleg's Grave, in which the princes were buried.

The mounds located in the Sopki tract look like ordinary hills or mounds overgrown with grass. Experts believe that the hill has a kind of biofield that has a positive effect on people. Some doctors and psychologists believe that Oleg's Grave helps to put thoughts in order and get rid of overwhelming psychological attachments.

Mounds at all times attracted lovers to profit, so there are no tops. But archaeologists still manage to find interesting things. For example, in 2008 they discovered a form in which until the middle of the 16th century the coats of arms of the descendants of Rurik were cast. It depicts a trident-falcon. This suggested that the Rurikoviches were buried here.

A large mound, as historians suggest, is the burial place of the Prophetic Oleg. The mound is quite steep and high, up to 30 meters. Climbing to the top is not as difficult as descending from it. There are not many daredevils. But what a view from there!

Note: the location of the cave is the lower slope of the Malyshevskaya mountain from the north of the settlement. Usually guided by the Church of John the Baptist.

Caves of Staraya Ladoga

Staraya Ladoga is famous for its dungeons, which are called caves: Staraya Ladoga Cave and Tanechkina. Travelers cannot miss these sights.

The former place of extraction of quartz sand, quarries were created in the 19th century,
represent a partially flooded and collapsed column, stretched along the Volkhov. Several species of bats live in the Tanichkina cave

Interesting fact: the caves of Staraya Ladoga of artificial origin remained after they stopped extracting white quartz sandstone.

When scientists visited them, they found fossilized animals. The caves have their own reservoirs, limestone deposits on the walls.

Getting into the Staraya Ladoga cave is not so easy: it was partially filled up or flooded. In this dungeon, at any time of the year, the temperature never changes, it stays at around +6 degrees.

The length of the Tanechkina cave is almost 8 kilometers. It is also partially inaccessible to tourists. The most interesting thing in the cave is a large lake underground. It has stable water content. The main inhabitants of the dungeon are bats, almost 400 species!

It is strictly forbidden to visit the cave on your own without an escort. Tanechkina cave consists of narrow, low passages. Before visiting, it is advisable to wear appropriate clothing.

Worth considering: from the Church of John the Baptist to the cave of Staraya Ladoga, you need to walk 100 m. If you walk from the Old Ladoga burial mounds, you will have to walk at least a kilometer.

Varyazhskaya street

There is no older Varyazhskaya street in Russia. It stretched for 200 meters. Appeared in the XV century. In the 18th century, it was rebuilt and even changed direction. The chapel appeared on it in the 13th year of the last century; it was erected with funds provided by the Imperial Geographical Society.

The most ancient street in Rus' from the now preserved is Varyazhskaya. Facilities in the yard, water from the well. Street leading to the temple (to the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin). Just around the corner is a booth with an unleashed dog. The dog is vicious, big. The path to the true faith is thorny and difficult ...

The street is also famous for its monuments - the house of Kalyazin and archaeological museum. In 2003, a sculpture appeared - a small falcon. It is he - main symbol Staraya Ladoga, its image on the coat of arms. Tourists put a coin in their beak for good luck.

Rurik and Prophetic Oleg stood on the street, like eternal guards, in 2015. Travelers come to bow to this monument.

Reconstructions of ancient battles

An interesting spectacle opens up to tourists every year. You can watch theatrical fights, the participants of which are actors dressed in the armor of medieval warriors.

You can often hear - "amazing-nearby ..." And this is true, because one and a half to two hours drive from St. Petersburg there are such places: ancient capital Northern Rus' - Staraya Ladoga

Having been here once, I want to come back here again and again plunge into the historical past of Russia. No difficulties of travel can become an obstacle. Once again, the photographs and pictures below will help you enjoy the views of Staraya Ladoga and its environs.