Staraya Ladoga, whose sights invariably attract thousands of tourists every year, is a large village. It is located in the Volkhovsky municipal district. This territory belongs to the Leningrad region. Ladoga was considered a city until 1703. The village has recently celebrated its anniversary - the "ancient capital of Northern Russia" is 1250 years old. Currently, Staraya Ladoga is a local administrative center. Next, we will get acquainted in more detail with the history of the settlement, we will find out what to see in Staraya Ladoga.
General information
This city was previously of great importance for the development of Ancient Rus. Everyone who has visited this place knows that already in the middle of the VIII century a settlement was formed here. Ladoga was considered a fortified hub on major trade routes. Also, this place is the first capital of Russia. 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 the old days. Now it is associated with regularity and calmness. What attracts tourists to Staraya Ladoga? Sights are presented here in a fairly large number. These are mainly monuments of ancient architecture. Among them, the Staraya Ladoga fortress on the Volkhov River stands out. Its architecture, dating from the 16th century, has been preserved in this form to this day. The Nikolsky Monastery and the Assumption Convent of Staraya Ladoga are very popular among tourists. It is believed that in the latter she was imprisoned who was the first wife of Peter I. You can also visit the Church of Ion the Baptist and the burial mound of the 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 ignore these attractions.
Brief historical background
The ship repair and production workshops of the Zemlyanoy settlement 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 these were the Gotlandians. Last year, on the territory of Staraya Ladoga, they were held again. During them, a ridge was discovered, which belongs to the Merovingian era. This is presumably the 7th century AD.
Further development
The first settlement included several buildings. The pillar structures had analogues in Northern Europe. They were located 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. Subsequently, the Ilmen Slovenes destroyed the Ladoga settlement. Later, this territory 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 the 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 turned into a typical city of Ancient Rus. Its total area was about twelve hectares.
Value
For a major trade route, the city was one of the important points. A birch bark scroll was found during the next excavations carried out on the territory of Staraya Ladoga. It featured an image of a rook. It is mentioned that the grave of Prophetic Oleg is located here. At the same time, the Kiev version is strikingly different from this one. She assumes that the burial site is located on Mount Szczekowice. 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 over a century. She was destroyed.
Old Ladoga fortress
It was founded in 1116. The order to create a stone fortress was given by the mayor Pavel. Nowadays 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 important during the period. This place was considered the only possible harbor for the shelter of ships that were not able to overcome the Volkhov rapids. The first local fortification was built during the time of Prophetic Oleg. Currently, the Old Ladoga Fortress is open to the public.
Renaming
At the beginning of the 18th 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". The excursions to the settlement, which are held today, will not leave indifferent any lover of Old Russian history. The Uspenskoye estate was considered the local cultural center. 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 its anniversary. At that time, the settlement had 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 excursion routes are organized in Staraya Ladoga. 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 "Old Ladoga"
In the 70s. restoration work was going on here. They were led by A.E. Ekk. Renewed exhibitions were soon 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 84, the museum received the status of a historical and architectural reserve of Federal significance.
Reconstruction
The Gate and Clement Towers were restored back in the Soviet period. There are three more to reconstruct. The restoration of the Arrow Tower began several years ago. 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 the new tower will turn into a kind of conservation dome for the surviving historical building. Currently, work on the reconstruction of structures continues.
Dormition monastery
What else is Staraya Ladoga famous for? The sights, photos of which are presented in the article, are not only examples of ancient Russian architecture. Many of them are closely related to the religious life of the population. This is the Assumption Convent. The first mention of him in written sources dates back to the 16th century. The 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. In a short period of time, the monastery fell into disrepair. It is currently functioning again.
Festival
What else attracts tourists to Staraya Ladoga? Sights, of course, are not the only thing that attracts many guests here every year. There is also a special festival in the village. This event is organized in Staraya Ladoga every year. Its members are members of craft workshop clubs from many regions of the country. The festival will never leave indifferent fans of the culture of Europe and the north of Russia. The event lasts several days. At this time, a field camp is functioning. Participants act out the capture of the fortress, arrange demonstration fights, compete in archery and demonstrate their skill in clay modeling. Not only the guests of the festival, but also the residents of Staraya Ladoga themselves dress appropriately. This makes the event more realistic. Currently the festival is actively developing. Its program is being improved and more and more participants come here every year.
We will tell you what interesting places to see in the ancient capital of Russia. Let's talk about the fortress, monasteries and local infrastructure. Read before you travel.
Historians for many years have not been able to come to a consensus about where the first capital of Ancient Russia was. However, most sources, including the Tale of Bygone Years, claim that Ladoga was the center of the ancient Russian state.
For more than a thousand years of history, the settlement has constantly attracted attention - first researchers and scientists, and then tourists. The village, which became a conservation area at the end of the last century, stores hundreds of archaeological and architectural monuments and attracts both lovers of Russian history and travelers who are bored with the majestic palaces and the aesthetics of the imperial possessions.
Legends of Staraya Ladoga
Several legends are associated with the capital of Ancient Rus. Here are the main ones:
- In these places there was a stone castle of Rurik. Only a fragment of the protective wall remained of it, and scientists have not yet agreed on it. The dating coincides, but whether Rurik himself was involved in it is a big question.
- Under the ruins of the fortress there is a chain of secret tunnels in case of a siege. They are mentioned by various, including very serious, sources. Most of them date back to the century before last. Unfortunately, a large-scale expedition led by N.E. Brandenburg did not find any secret passages.
- Alexander Nevsky consecrated his sword in the fortress church before the battle on Lake Peipsi. Like, this is what brought him victory.
- The guides and local residents are sure that the same prophetic Oleg is buried in one of the mounds near the fortress. It is not known for certain.
The main attractions of Staraya Ladoga
Before heading to the village of Staraya Ladoga, you should take care of accommodation. The best option is to stay at any hotel in St. Petersburg or its environs. The road from the northern capital is not the easiest one.
To have time to go "gallop across Europe" in a day and get acquainted with the main sights, you need to go by train from Ladozhsky railway station to Volkhovstroy-1 station at half past six in the morning. In Volkhov we change to bus number 23, which will take you to the desired bus stop "Staraya Ladoga" in 15 minutes. The cost of the trip in this case will be about 700 rubles. You can go back by bus directly to St. Petersburg, it leaves at 19:00, the ticket costs 250 rubles.
Old Ladoga fortress
Perhaps the main attraction of Ladoga. It is located in the center of the village, on the banks of the Volkhov River. The first buildings appeared here under Oleg the Prophet and subsequently expanded and supplemented. The buildings of the 15th century are best preserved, the older ones are in a dilapidated state, but their appearance is maintained unchanged. In the seventies of the XX century, reconstruction was carried out, and a museum was opened on the territory of the architectural complex.
In addition to defensive structures and fortress walls, the fortress complex includes several historical monuments. The Church of St. George the Victorious was built long before the beginning of the Mongol-Tatar yoke, in the XII century. It is there that the first known image of St. George is located, which made the architectural monument the only fresco museum. There is another temple nearby, the wooden church of Demetrius Thessaloniki. It was built in 1901 on the site of a 17th century chapel. Also, in one of the towers of the fortress there is a museum of local lore, and behind its wall there is an Earthen settlement.
Church of John the Baptist on Malysheva Gora. Photo: S.M. Prokudin-Gorsky. 1909 year. Varyazhskaya street
After walking around the fortress, you should walk along Varyazhskaya Street, which is on the opposite bank of the Ladozhka River. At the very beginning of it there is a modest monument - a bronze falcon on a stone, a symbol of Staraya Ladoga. Ahead is an inconspicuous village landscape: a narrow country road, small houses. But after a few minutes the trail leads to a large square with a park and a monument to the founders of the Russian State, Rurik and Oleg. It is Varyazhskaya Street that is considered the first street in Russia. The point is in archaeological finds that scientists date back to the 9th century: they prove that already at that time the shores of Ladozhka were fully developed. From the monument you can go down to the river and admire the view of the fortress for a few minutes. The restored Shooting Tower is especially visible.
Museums
Let's go back to the square. In its northeastern part, in the very corner, there are two houses, a stone and a wooden one. In the 19th century, they belonged to the merchants Kalyazins. The stone now houses the Ladoga archeology museum, the wooden one, until recently, housed a museum of merchant life. Over time, the building fell into disrepair, and the second museum had to be closed. However, the house is not demolished: moreover, its "face" is regularly updated so that Ladoga does not lose an important cultural monument.
Monasteries
Varyazhskaya Street leads to the Assumption Convent. Despite the fact that the first mentions in the annals date back to the 15th century, 1156 is considered to be the date of its foundation. For a long time, the monastery had a bad reputation: it was the place of imprisonment of many famous women. Among his "hostages" are the first wife of Peter the Great Evdokia Lopukhin, Evdokia Hannibal and the wives of the Decembrists.
On the territory of the monastery there is a cathedral of the same name, which deserves special attention of tourists. The Assumption Cathedral was built in the XII century and became the standard of Novgorod architecture. From the moment of its foundation, it has been preserved in its original form, and on its walls more than 13 thousand fragments of wall paintings dating from the same XII century have been found. The Assumption Church is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Old Ladoga, along with the Church of the Exaltation of the Cross, where the relics of the saints are kept. Both churches are open from 9 am to 7 pm.
Another important shrine of Old Ladoga is the Nikolsky Monastery. This is one of the most significant monuments of Russian history. The monastery was founded in 1240, immediately after the victory in the Battle of the Neva, personally by Alexander Nevsky. The prince dedicated it to Nicholas the Wonderworker, the patron saint of travelers, sailors and fishermen. For less than eight centuries, the monastery has gone through a lot: a devastating attack by the Swedes in 1611, re-erection, several restorations. In 1927 the monastery was closed, but in 2002 everything returned to its usual course. Today the relics of the founders of the Valaam Monastery - Sergius and German are kept in the shrine. In addition, the churches of St. John Chrysostom and St. Nicholas with its majestic bell tower are interesting.
Mounds
The sights of Staraya Ladoga do not end with its topographic boundaries. On the northern outskirts of the village, on the high bank of the Volkhva, there is a group of mounds. The tallest of them is usually called Olegov. Despite the fact that Pushkin in the "Song of the Prophetic Oleg" and Nestor in the "Tale of Bygone Years" call Kiev the place of death of the prince, the Novgorod chronicles indicate that Oleg was buried in Ladoga. Of course, today there is no evidence of this or that theory, which can be trusted unquestioningly. However, it is worth going to the mounds at least for the sake of a panoramic view of Staraya Ladoga and the measured flow of the Volkhv's waters.
Tanechkina cave
One kilometer from the grave of Oleg the Prophet lies another place that extreme travelers have chosen - Tanechkina Cave. A man-made grotto with many labyrinths and passages appeared in the 19th century. Some of the passages are blocked up, the walls are mesmerizing layers of rocks. Here, in the cave, the largest colony of bats in the northwest winters. Of course, you shouldn't go to explore the cave without an experienced guide.
View of the Church of St. George. Photo: S.M. Prokudin-Gorsky. 1909 year. What else to see
The largest event in Staraya Ladoga is considered to be the festival "Staraya Ladoga - the first capital of Russia". Traditionally it takes place in the summer, the program lasts two days. The main part of the holiday is reconstructed military competitions, but a lot of events pass by. Among them are a theatrical performance of the first centuries of Ladoga's existence, a competition of historical costumes, concerts of folk music, demonstration performances of participants and interactive platforms for adults and children. The festival takes place in the Staroladozhskaya fortress, a ticket for an adult will cost 300 rubles, for a child - half the price.
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Nowadays, Staraya Ladoga is a small village located on the high bank of the Volkhov, 120 kilometers from St. Petersburg. It is quiet and calm here, life is measured and unhurried. But numerous burial mounds and ancient architectural monuments testify that this place is not easy. She is the first capital of Russia.
In 2008 I happened to work here at. I offer you, my readers, my own small guide to the sights of Staraya Ladoga.
The first wooden fortress on this site was built in the 9th-10th centuries at the confluence of the Ladozhka (Elena) river into the Volkhov. In 1116, under Prince Mstislav Vladimirovich the Great (1076-1132, baptized Theodore), the construction of a stone fortress began, which was subsequently rebuilt several times. The enemy stormed her many times. In 1617, according to the Stolbovo peace, it went to Russia and for almost a hundred years was a border. After 1702, when Noteburg was taken (), the fortress lost its strategic importance.
Currently, archaeological research and restoration work is underway in the Staroladozhskaya fortress. Some of the buildings were reconstructed at the end of the 16th century, the rest are preserved ruins. On its territory are located the St. George Cathedral, the Church of Demetrius Thessaloniki, the fortress museum.
St. George's Cathedral was built in memory of the Swedes' attempt to take Ladoga in 1164. It is one of two pre-Mongol temples preserved in Staraya Ladoga (originally there were 7 or 8). Inside, about 20% of the 12th century frescoes have survived, among which the most expressive are the Ascension of the Lord on the drum and dome, the Miracle of George about the Serpent in the altar and others. According to legend, before the battle with the Swedes, Prince Alexander Nevsky prayed and consecrated his sword in this temple.
George Cathedral and the Church of Dmitry Solunsky
Dmitry Solunsky Church
The first mention of the church dates back to 1646. It was rebuilt several times. The existing temple was built in 1901.
Museum of the Old Ladoga Fortress
The museum was founded in 1971 in the Gate Tower of the Old Ladoga Fortress. The exposition includes items from different eras, starting from the Stone Age.
Address: 187412, Leningrad region, Volkhovsky district, settlement of Staraya Ladoga, Volkhovsky pr., 19 Tel. (8-1263) 493-70. Working hours: 10.00-17.00, closed on Monday.
In 1584-1585, to the south of the stone fortress, the Earthen City was erected from wood and earth, which had three bastions. Apparently, it was one of the first bastion-type fortresses in Russia. On a four-meter earthen rampart stood an oak palisade with three towers: Naugolnaya, Berezhnaya and Nadvratnaya. Currently, archaeological excavations are underway here, ancient dwellings of the 9th-11th centuries, numerous items of that time, many of which are of European and Arab origin, have been found.
According to legend, the Nikolsky Monastery was founded by Prince Alexander Nevsky "in memory of the dead Ladoga relatives" who fell in the Battle of the Neva in 1240. In 1611, monks from the Valaam monastery destroyed by the Swedes moved here. Soon the Nikolsky Monastery was destroyed by the troops of Jacob Delagardie (1583-1652), one of the active participants in the events of the Time of Troubles. After the Time of Troubles, the monastery was restored. At the end of the 18th century it was abolished, but at the beginning of the next century it was reopened.
In recent years, restoration work has been carried out in the Nikolsky Monastery.
The oldest building of the monastery is the four-pillar one-domed Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of the 17th century, built on the site of the 12th century cathedral with fragments of the latter. The Church of St. John Chrysostom was built at the end of the 19th century in the form of an ancient Roman basilica, with elements of the pseudo-Russian style.
Address: Leningrad region, Volkhovsky district, settlement Staraya Ladoga, st. Nikolskaya, 1
Founded in 1156 on the site of the ancient monastery of Simeon the God-Receiver. In the first half of the 12th century, the Assumption Cathedral was built here, which has survived to this day. Fragments of 12th century frescoes were found inside the cathedral. The rest of the monastery buildings were built in the 19th century in the late Empire and pseudo-Russian style. Anna Kashinskaya found shelter in the Assumption Monastery, Evdokia Lopukhina and Evdokia Hannibal were imprisoned, in the 19th century there lived a nun-poet Elisaveta Shakhova.
Address: Leningrad region, Volkhovsky district, settlement Staraya Ladoga, Uspensky lane.
Estate "Uspenskoe"
Located next to the Assumption Monastery. It was built in the 1780s by Lieutenant General Roman Nikiforovich Tomilov. In 1816-1817, his son Alexei rebuilt his father's estate. Here Tomilov kept his richest collection of paintings, among which was the largest collection of drawings and etchings by Rembrandt in Russia. Many Russian artists, including O. Kiprensky, I.K. Aivazovsky, N.K. Roerich, were guests of Uspensky.
In 1918, more than 6,000 pieces of painting were transferred to the Russian Museum in Petrograd. The manor house burned down in 1928, only the former service house survived.
Estate "Uspenskoe", photo from the Internet
Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist
Located on Malysheva Gora. Until the middle of the 18th century, the John the Baptist Monastery existed here, the first mention of which dates back to 1276. The existing temple was built in 1695 in the Yaroslavl style. Frescoes from that time are preserved inside. In the 19th century, quartz sand mining began near the temple, and underground cavities were formed. Perhaps they served as the beginning of the emergence of stories about underground passages connecting the temple with the Old Ladoga fortress and caves. Until the 1930s, the Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist was considered the main temple of Staraya Ladoga.
64 m southeast of the Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist is the entrance to the Staraya Ladoga cave. To the north-east of the temple is the Holy Spring of Paraskeva Friday, equipped with a font.
Address: Leningrad region, Volkhov district, settlement Staraya Ladoga, Pozemskaya st., 1
Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist on Malyshevaya Gora
Varyazhskaya street
Varyazhskaya Street is considered the oldest street in Russia, which, according to written sources, already existed in the 15th century. Various household items of the 9th-10th centuries were found here. From the 18th century, it began to be built up with merchant houses. Currently, there are mainly one-story private houses along it behind fences.
In 2013, on Varyazhskaya Street, a bronze falcon sculpture - a totem symbol of the Rurik family and a symbol of Staraya Ladoga. It is believed that a coin should be left in its beak for luck.
Sculpture "Attacking Falcon", a symbol of Staraya Ladoga. Falcon is a totemic symbol of the Rurik dynasty, often found as a heraldic symbol in the culture of the Eastern Slavs.
On September 12, 2015, in the park on Varyazhskaya Street, was installed monument to Rurik and Prophetic Oleg, architect Oleg Shorov.
Chapel of the Assumption Monastery on Varyazhskaya Street
Built by the architect N. Brandenburg in 1913 with funds from the Imperial Geographical Society on the site of the foundations of an ancient 12th century church, presumably Spassky.
House of merchant P.V. Kalyazin
The stone house of the merchant P.V. Kalyazin was built in the 19th century. Within its walls is the Archaeological Museum of Staraya Ladoga, the exposition of which presents objects discovered during archaeological excavations in Staraya Ladoga.
House of merchants Kalyazin
House of the merchant A.V. Kalyazin
A wooden house built in the 19th century on Varyazhskaya Street. At one time it housed the museum "Merchant Life of Old Ladoga".
House of the merchant A.V. Kalyazin (green, near the monument to Rurik and Oleg)
Craft Sloboda
Located on Volkhovskoe highway, not far from the kurgans. This is a working old-time courtyard, where an artist-restorer lives with his family. There is a souvenir shop nearby. You can also drink tea from a samovar with pies for a small fee.
Park in memory of fellow countrymen who died in 1941-1945
A small park with a memorial sign with the inscription “A park was laid here in memory of fellow countrymen who died on the fields of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. The park was founded in the year of the 40th anniversary of the Victory ”.
Park in memory of fellow countrymen who died in 1941-1945
Installed in the park next to the regional cultural and sports center "Ladoga".
Mounds in the Sopki tract
A large field between Volkhovsky avenue and Volkhov, on which mounds of the VIII-XII centuries rise. The most famous of them is Oleg's grave, where the Prophetic Oleg is believed to be buried. Remains of ancient robberies have been preserved on its summit and slopes. Archaeological studies of traces of Oleg's grave, alas, have not been found.
Many legends are associated with the mounds: that there is a whole system of underground passages connecting the mounds with the caves, fortress and monasteries of Staraya Ladoga. Rodnovers and lovers of antiquity also gather here.
Caves of Staraya Ladoga
The most famous caves are Staroladozhskaya, Tanechkin, Malyshka. There are several unexplored caves to the south of the village. They represent the workings of the 19th century. The Tanechkina Cave is home to the largest colony of bats in northwestern Russia.
In Tanechkina cave
Lyubshan fortress
The Lyubshan fortress is considered the most ancient in Russia. It is a cape settlement with a diameter of about 50 meters, surrounded by an arched rampart about 70 meters long and up to 18 meters wide at the base. The first Finno-Ugric settlement on this site appeared in the 3rd century. In the second half of the 7th - the first half of the 8th century, Slavic tribes (possibly the Ilmen Slovenes) came here and drove out the local population. The old Chud settlement burned down, and a new Slavic settlement was built in its place. Died at the turn of the 9th-10th centuries.
Preserved shell masonry made of limestone, fragments of additional retaining walls and wooden fortifications along the top of the rampart. It is located near the village of Seltso-Gorka, on the territory of the Staroladozhskaya Dacha guest complex.
Field research of the Lyubshansk settlement in 1999. Photo from the site of the Staraya Ladoga Museum-Reserve www.ladogamuseum.ru
Manor Lyubsha
The former estate is located in the village of Seltso-Gorka. Belonged to the landowner Nadezhda Konstantinovna Izmailova, the mother-in-law of the itinerant artist Vasily Maksimovich Maksimov (1844-1911). The estate and the owner can be seen in the famous painting by the artist “Everything is in the Past”.
Vasily Maximov. "Everything is in the Past", 1889. Oil on canvas. 72 × 93.5 cm. State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow
Vasilievsky churchyard
Vasilievsky Pogost is located on the opposite bank of the Volkhov River, in the village of Chernavino. Until 1764, there was the Vasilievsky Monastery, whose inhabitants at one time were monks who fled from the Valaam Monastery occupied by the Swedes. The church of St. Basil of Kessaria, built in 1686 on the foundations of the 13th century stone dismantled for dilapidation, and the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior, erected in 1871 on the site of a wooden church built in 1684, have survived. The famous itinerant artist Vasily Maksimovich Maksimov (1844-1911) is buried at the Vasilyevsky churchyard.
♦ More details:
Burial mound in the Plakun tract
It is located opposite the Staraya Ladoga fortress in the village of Lopino, on the other bank of the Volkhov River. It is a large burial mound of 13 flat mounds 0.3-0.6 meters high and embankments 10-20 meters in diameter. Traces of the rest of the mounds may have been destroyed in the past. They are Scandinavian, dating from about VIII - end of IX century.
Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Babino
The village of Babino, in the past - the village of Pokrovskoe. Here is the ruined Church of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos, built in 1737-1739 in a style close to the Naryshkin Baroque.
Gorchakovski waterfalls
Located in the village of Gorchakovshchina. On the north side of the village there is a large waterfall, on the south - a smaller one.
How many days to come to Staraya Ladoga and where to stay
I think you are convinced that there is something to see in Staraya Ladoga. However, they usually come here for one day. In this case, many sights are viewed on the run, while others are completely off-screen. If possible, it is worth coming here for a few days in order to feel the whole atmosphere of this place, to go to Novaya Ladoga, to the mouth of the Volkhov, to walk around the surroundings.
In recent years, several hotels and recreation centers have appeared in the vicinity of Staraya Ladoga. The choice is small, but it is there. A selection of hotels in Staraya Ladoga and the surrounding area can be viewed.
The already mentioned above seemed to me quite an interesting option "Staroladozhskaya Dacha" on the opposite bank of the Volkhov. Another option is to stay at a hotel "Metallurgist" in Volkhov, 15-20 minutes by car from Staraya Ladoga.
Attractions of Staraya Ladoga on the map
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Sights of Staraya Ladoga. At the present time, Staraya Ladoga is not a large village; earlier it was one of the largest cities in Russia. Staraya Ladoga is the first ancient capital of Russia, which already makes it a tourist attraction. It is here that ancient structures, artifacts and burials are located.
You can get to Staraya Ladoga by regular buses, by train, by train or by car. The village is located 120 km from St. Petersburg. What to see in Staraya Ladoga?
Tourists, historians and archaeologists, both from all over Russia and from abroad, aspire here. Having visited Staraya Ladoga, you will plunge into the world of antiquity, get acquainted with local sights. You can see the village and its surroundings on your own, or as part of an excursion group, where you will be briefed on the description and history of all artifacts and attractions.
The territory of Staraya Ladoga and its environs belong to the Staraya Ladoga Historical, Architectural and Archaeological Museum-Reserve. All sights are connected with the history of ancient Russia. You can get acquainted with architectural landmarks, shrines, monuments and memorials.
Architectural landmarks of Staraya Ladoga
Fortresses
- Old Ladoga fortressit was first built of wood in the 9th century and served as defensive functions from the side of the Baltic Sea. The stone fortress was built in the 12th century and was completed and rebuilt more than once. The fortress itself is located in the center of the village and is its "heart". The Old Ladoga fortress was erected at the confluence of the Ladozhka River with the Volkhov, which complemented its defensive capabilities.
The fortress has repeatedly been attacked, destroyed, sieged, therefore, buildings dating from the 16th century have survived to this day. Of its five towers, only two Klimentovskaya and Vorotnaya have survived and have been reconstructed, in some places the thickness of the walls ranges from 5 to 7 meters. The Roll-out, Arrow, and Secret Towers lie in ruins.
On the territory of the fortress there is a church and a cathedral. The fortress lost its defensive functions and strategic importance at the beginning of the 18th century, after the conquest of Noteburg. Now you can visit the fortress any day, and in summer festivals and holidays are held on its territory.
- Lyubshan fortress was discovered not so long ago. Historians began to study it at the end of the 20th century. The Lyubshan Fortress is the oldest stone structure, which, unfortunately, has not survived. In the 8th century it was a large trade center located not far from the border, but in the 9th century the village was abandoned.
Now from the fortress there are only two-meter ruins, ramparts, and the territory around the fortress is overgrown, so it is not immediately possible to see it. However, there is beautiful nature here, which, together with the fortress, is depicted by the famous artist Nicholas Roerich in his painting "Guests from Overseas".
- Earthen settlement located in the south of the Staraya Ladoga fortress, surrounded by wooden and earthen ramparts dating back to the 16th century. The earthen settlement and the Staraya Ladoga fortress were the main defensive structures until the eighteenth century.
Now, archaeological excavations are being carried out on the territory of the settlement, many artifacts and household items of the 8th -11th centuries, which are of European and Arab origin, have been found. You can visit the oldest structure and attend the excavations, plunging into the spirit of that time.
- Stone chapel was built in 1913 by the architect N. Brandenburg, on the site of the Savior Church. The construction was initiated by the Imperial Geographical Society, who decided to build a shrine on the site of the former, which has not survived.
- The houses of the merchants Kolyazins... In one of the houses, a wooden one, there is a museum "Merchant life of Staraya Ladoga", which displays household items, dishes, clothes of merchants and peasants of the 19th -20th centuries. Where you can see how the merchants lived at that time.
In the stone house of the Kolyazins there is an archaeological museum, which displays exhibits of ancient Ladoga, because excavations in this area have been conducted since the 19th century.
Historical sights of Staraya Ladoga
- Estate "Uspenskoe" adjoins the Assumption Monastery. The estate was erected by Lieutenant General R.N. Tomilin and was rebuilt by his son. Tomilin was a connoisseur of art, famous artists such as Aivazovsky, Roerich, Kiprensky, Venetsianov often visited his house. A collection of paintings by these and other famous artists was kept in his house. After the revolution, the estate was confiscated, and a collection of 6,000 paintings and objects was transferred to the Museum of St. Petersburg, among which were paintings by Rembrandt.
Now the estate is in an abandoned state and the entrance to the building is closed, but many tourists and locals like to walk along the alleys and parks of this estate.
- Museum of the Old Ladoga Fortresslocated in the Gate Tower of the Old Ladoga Fortress on the second and third tiers. The museum includes all churches, buildings, barrows and other structures located in Staraya Ladoga. Separately, exhibits are presented in the form of household items, dishes, weapons, armor of the Middle Ages, discovered on this territory by archaeologists.
On the territory of Staraya Ladoga, an annual thematic festival "The First Capital of Russia" is held in summer, where everyone can try on chain mail, local residents prepare old recipes, battles and battles are held with the help of ancient weapons. Anyone can visit this wonderful action and plunge into the Middle Ages.
- Varyazhskaya street- this is the oldest street in ancient Russia. Walking along this street is a tradition for all tourists. Nowadays there are modern buildings on the street, however, archaeologists and historians still find objects of the 9-10 centuries on this street, which made it popular. It is on this street that the Stone Chapel, built in 1913, is located, on the site where the Spa temple, destroyed by time, stood. The houses of the merchants Kalyazins and the famous sculpture of Sokol are located along Varyazhskaya Street.
- Moundsin appearance they are nothing special, but it is worthwhile to realize that these embankments date back to the 8-9 centuries, which makes them special. In total, there are three burial mounds in Sopki - these are ancient burials. According to one of the theory of historians, one of the mounds is the burial place of Prince Oleg. The mounds have artificially and naturally created catacombs, but there is no way to get into them. The mounds are easy to climb; they offer an amazing view of the Volkhov River.
- Oleg's grave - one of the oldest burials in Russia, so many tourists visit the mounds every day. There is an opinion that the energy of these places has healing properties. After visiting these parts, be sure to visit the mounds dating back to the 8-9th century. However, be careful when going up and down hills, as they are surrounded on one side by a gentle slope down to the river.
- Caves in Staraya Ladoga were created in the 19th century by people who mined here white quartz sandstone, which was used in the glass industry. There are several caves here, the most famous of them are Staroladozhskaya, Tanechkina, Malyshka. The length of some caves reaches 7.5 km, some of the passages in the caves are filled up, so it is better to visit the cave not alone, but as part of an excursion group, so as not to get lost.
There is an underground lake in Tanechkena cave, which practically does not dry out, and patterns from various rocks are visible on the walls. A large number of bats winter in the cave. It will be safe to visit the caves under the guidance of an experienced guide and in comfortable shoes, as many of the passages in the caves are blocked and flooded.
- Tract "Pobedishche" located on the southern outskirts of the village of Staraya Ladoga, the discoverer of which was the geographer N.E. Branderbug. Remains of people and horses, weapons were found here.
According to legend, it was here that a major battle with the Swedes took place, in which many soldiers died, whose blood flowed down the stream into the waters of the Volkhov River. Not far from the tract flows this stream, which is called "Bloody".
- Sopki tract -this is a cluster of mounds in the form of ancient burials. There are still disputes over the most famous burial - Oleg's grave, which has been studied since the 19th century, human remains were found by one of the archaeologists, but the evidence of authenticity is still in doubt.
- Lyubshanskoe settlementwas discovered in 1997 and is considered the oldest structure dating back to the 7th century. However, according to research, the fortress was abandoned in the 9th century, as it lost its defensive significance for the Slavs.
- Gorchakovshchinsky waterfall located near the village. Its peculiarity is that it is the highest waterfall in the entire Leningrad region, its height is 4 meters. It is located on a small river that flows into the Volkhov. The waterfall is surrounded by greenery and picturesque countryside, you can find it with the help of local residents, or on your own.
Shrines of Old Ladoga
On the territory of the small village of Staraya Ladoga there is a large number of churches, temples, monasteries. This is due to the fact that Staraya Ladoga is considered the first capital of Russia, which makes them unique, consider some of them:
- Nikolsky Monastery on its territory there is the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of John Chrysostom, a bell tower and a number of monastery buildings. The founder of the monastery was Alexander Nevsky in 1240, after the victory over the Swedes.
In 1611, the monastery was almost completely destroyed by the Swedes, after which it was rebuilt. The building of the monastery suffered a difficult history. Valaam monks moved here in the 17th century, after the destruction of their monastery by the Swedes. In 1927, the monastery was closed; during the Soviet era, the monastery housed a school, a hostel and a warehouse for agricultural machinery.
In 1974 the Nikolsky monastery was recognized as a historical monument of national importance. Reconstruction work in it is still in progress. The main attraction of the Nikolsky Monastery is that a particle is stored on its territory relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.
- Holy Assumption Monastery and Assumption Church... The Assumption Church was built in 1156, and is one of the oldest buildings in Staraya Ladoga, the rest of the buildings adjacent to the monastery were erected in the 19th century.
The Assumption Monastery was originally for men, but later it was transferred to the nuns. The monastery was glorified by the fact that at different times famous women were imprisoned on its territory, such as Evdokia Fedorovna Lopukhina, wife of Peter 1, Evdokia Hannibal. During the imprisonment of the wife of Peter 1, the tonsure of new nuns was stopped, the entrance of parishioners was prohibited on the territory of the monastery, a military guard was on duty. Later, relatives of the Decembrists were exiled here.
The building of the temple dates back to the Mongol period and has a large number of frescoes that are not very well preserved.
On the territory of the monastery there is the Church of the Exaltation of the Cross, where the relics of the saints are kept, which significantly increases the flow of tourists and pilgrims.
- Church of the Nativity of John the Baptisterected in 1695 on Malysheva Gora. Previously, there was a monastery dating back to the 13th century, but one stone building has survived.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the church began to sag due to the voids and caves in the mountain, formed as a result of the extraction of quartz sand by local residents. Then they had to save the temple from destruction, pouring concrete into the voids. In the temple there is the border of St. Paraskeva Friday, and not far from the temple, the spring of St. Paraskeva Friday flows, the water in which is curative.
- Church of Saint George is located on the territory of the Staraya Ladoga Fortress, which has preserved frescoes of the 12th century. According to legend, it was in this temple that Alexander Nevsky prayed and lit his sword before the battle with the Swedes.
The construction of the temple dates back to the 12th century, and is considered one of two shrines that have survived to this day. Unique, preserved frescoes adorn the walls of the temple. One of the most famous is the image of George the Victorious on a horse, who steps on a snake, has the name "The Miracle of George about the Dragon". The second famous image, on the drum dome, is the Ascension of the Lord.
Now they do not hold divine services and services in the temple, but it is open for visiting tourists and local residents.
- Dmitry Solunsky Churchbuilt in the 17th century on the territory of the fortress at the Church of St. George the Victorious, the church itself was dismantled and erected several times. A copy dating back to the 20th century has survived to this day. The Church now houses a local history museum, where you can familiarize yourself with the history of the temple and items of peasant life.
- Church of Alexei, the man of God was built of wood in the nineteenth century with donations from local residents, as a small chapel. Over time, local entrepreneur Semyon Kalinin allocated money for the construction of a stone church. The church underwent a complete restoration in 2000.
- Church of the Transfiguration was built on the banks of the Volkhov River from wood in the 17th century, but it could not survive the fire. A new stone church was erected in its place in 1871 with donations from the merchant Rybin, and has survived to this day.
- Churchyard and Church of Basil of Caesarea were here in 1618, but the building was completely destroyed by the end of the century. Several decades later, at the expense of the local governor, a new stone church was erected. Not long ago, the temple underwent another restoration and is now open to the public.
Monuments and memorials of Staraya Ladoga
- Monument to Rurik and Prophetic Olegwas opened on Varyazhskaya Street, personifying the beginning of the revival of Russian statehood. It is unique, as it exists in a single copy throughout Russia.
- Stella in memory of the 1250th anniversary of Staraya Ladoga located next to the cultural and sports center "Ladoga", personifying the ancient existence of the village.
- Falcon sculpture located at the beginning of Varyazhskaya street, is symbolic for local residents. It is this bird that is depicted on the coat of arms of Staraya Ladoga, personifies the unity of people and nature. There is a tradition to put a coin between the feathers of this bird - for good luck.
Finally
The territory of Staraya Ladoga is a natural monument with a total area of \u200b\u200bover 200 hectares. It is important to preserve local burial mounds, caves, and the geology of local regions. All sights are part of the Staraya Ladoga architectural and historical-archaeological museum-reserve.
It is forbidden to make fires, to extract minerals, to carry out construction work, to graze livestock, to dig up mounds, to dump garbage on this territory. Old Ladoga attracts many tourists, here you can touch the history and feel the spirit of the old times. Having been here once, many return to these lands, Staraya Ladoga will not leave anyone indifferent!
Staraya Ladoga is one of the oldest villages in Russia, “the first capital of Russia”. Today it is a fairly large village, located 120 kilometers from St. Petersburg. However, in terms of the number of historical and architectural monuments, it surpasses many cities in the country.
In our article we will tell you about the history and main sights of Staraya and Novaya Ladoga.
Staraya Ladoga - a village with a thousand-year history
Today, Staraya Ladoga is just a village on the banks of the Volkhov River with a population of 2,000. But it was once an important outpost city of Russia, which held back ferocious attacks from ill-wishers. The main reason to visit Staraya Ladoga is numerous natural, historical, cultural and architectural monuments dating back to the 9th-19th centuries.
Almost all the sights of the village of Staraya Ladoga are interesting and unique in their own way. And there are an incredible amount of them! But tourists come here not only for the sake of monuments, but also in order to feel, feel the spirit of antiquity, enjoy the incredibly picturesque landscapes.
To further captivate the reader with Staraya Ladoga, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the ten most interesting historical facts about this village:
- Staraya Ladoga is one of the oldest settlements in Russia (the first mention of it dates back to 862);
- until 1703 Staraya Ladoga had the status of a city and was simply called Ladoga;
- the city was one of the most important points on the trade route "from the Varangians to the Greeks";
- according to one version, ancient Russian prince Oleg was buried in Ladoga;
- Ladoga became the first city in Northern Europe, all walls of which were built exclusively of stone;
- already in the 8th century, Ladoga residents traded with money (glass beads played their role);
- just one Ladoga bead in the 10th century could buy a slave;
- the architecture of the Old Ladoga fortress is unique for Russian architecture, there is no longer a similar monument throughout Russia;
- The Old Ladoga fortress is included in the hundred most beautiful places in the country;
- a real treasure of silver Arab coins was found on the territory of the village (the find was dated by historians to the 8th century).
New Ladoga and its history
If you go upstream from Staraya Ladoga, then after 15 kilometers you will find yourself in Novaya Ladoga. This small town was founded in 1704 by the order of Peter the Great to serve the shipyard, which was created two years earlier. Many old Ladies were ordered to move to a new city. During World War II, Novaya Ladoga played a significant role in providing besieged Leningrad along the so-called Road of Life.
It's a sin not to visit this small town if you are heading to Staraya Ladoga. There are also plenty of attractions here. Novaya Ladoga is a beautifully planned city, old buildings and magnificent views of the Volkhov River and Lake Ladoga.
The main monuments and interesting places in Novaya Ladoga:
- Nikolo-Medvedsky monastery.
- Seating yard.
- Staroladozhsky channel.
- Nikolsky Cathedral.
- Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin.
- Temple of Clement of Rome (dilapidated).
- St. George Church.
- Novoladozhsky Museum of Local Lore.
- Memorial complex "Road of Life".
List of sights of Staraya Ladoga
However, let's return to the settlement from which our story began - Staraya Ladoga. Inspection of the monuments of this village, as a rule, begins with the fortress. This is the main and most valuable sight of Staraya Ladoga, which is under the protection of UNESCO. Inside the fortress there is an old church of the 12th century, which has been perfectly preserved.
A complete list of historical monuments and must-see places of interest in this unique village is as follows:
- Old Ladoga fortress.
- Assumption Monastery.
- Varyazhskaya street.
- Oleg's grave.
- Nikolsky Orthodox Monastery.
- Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist.
- House of the merchant Kalyazin.
- Estate "Uspenskoe".
- Tanechkina and Staroladozhskaya caves.
- Gorchakovshchinsky waterfall.
A schematic map of the sights of Staraya Ladoga will help you orient yourself in the village (see photo below).
Old Ladoga fortress
The main attraction of Staraya Ladoga is the fortress, founded at the end of the 9th century. What we can see today was rebuilt almost from scratch in the 2000s.
The fortress is located on a narrow promontory, in the place where the Ladozhka River flows into the Volkhov. It was originally made of wood. During the reign of Prince Oleg, a powerful stronghold of stone was erected here. For a long time, the fortress defended the northern borders of Ancient Rus, then Russia. It lost its defensive significance only at the beginning of the 18th century.
Assumption Monastery
To the north of the fortress there is another important monument of the village - the Old Ladoga Holy Dormition Monastery. It was founded in the middle of the 12th century.
The most northern of the ancient Russian temples of the pre-Mongol period, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Most Holy Theotokos, is hidden behind the walls of the monastery. It has been standing here since 1156! The temple is quite miniature: its width is 14 meters, and its height is 19 meters, nevertheless, it can accommodate several dozen people. The walls of the Assumption Church were lavishly painted, but the painting has practically not survived to this day.
It is known that from 1718 to 1725, it was in this monastery that the first wife of Peter the Great, Evdokia Lopukhina, stayed, who was tonsured as a nun.
Varyazhskaya street
It is unacceptable to visit Staraya Ladoga and not walk along Varyazhskaya Street. After all, according to the conclusion of historians, this is the oldest street in Russia! The earliest mentions of it date back to the 15th century.
Today on Varyazhskaya Street you can see old wooden houses on one floor, which once belonged to local merchants. It is quiet and very cozy here. At the beginning of the ancient street, there is a bronze sculpture of a falcon. It is this bird that is considered the symbol of Staraya Ladoga. All tourists make a wish near this sculpture and leave coins in the beak of a bronze falcon.
Gorchakovshchinsky waterfall
Very few people know about the Gorchakovshchinsky waterfall, but in vain, because this is the highest waterfall in the Leningrad region. This is an amazing natural corner where you can calmly rest your thoughts and enjoy nature. It is located in the village of Gorchakovshchina, on the opposite bank of the river from Staraya Ladoga.
The waterfall is only four meters high. It is located in a river canyon and falls into a shallow bowl with sandstone walls. It is not long to go to the waterfall, a forest path leads directly from the village to it.
Tanechkina Cave
In the past, Tanechkin Cave was a place for the extraction of white quartz. It stretches seven kilometers in length. There are many passages and labyrinths in the cave, and in its central gallery there is a shallow lake.
Hundreds of bats live inside. This is the largest, but also the most dangerous cave in Staraya Ladoga. Landfalls and floods often occur here, however, this rarely stops cavers.
How to get to the sights of Staraya Ladoga?
The village is located in the Volkhov district of the Leningrad region, ten kilometers from the city of Volkhov and 120 kilometers from St. Petersburg. How can you get to the sights of Staraya Ladoga? The easiest way to do this is by car. But you can also get there by public transport.
By car, you need to move from St. Petersburg along the Murmansk highway (M18). Immediately after the village of Kiselnya you need to turn off the road to the right (signpost to Volkhov town). After another two kilometers, turn left. This road will lead to an intersection on the banks of the Volkhov River. Here you need to turn left again and drive another four kilometers to Staraya Ladoga.
The second way to get to the village is by public transport. You can get to the city of Volkhov by electric train (from Moskovsky or Ladozhsky railway station). In Volkhov, you can change to a regular bus to Staraya Ladoga. In some 20 minutes he will bring you to the old village.
