Being first mentioned in the chronicles in 1147, Vologda is one of the oldest cities in Russia.
it is situated on picturesque banks of a quiet river of the same name. The ancient town of Vologda served as gates to the north and was a big commercial and trade centre. It also served as an outpost of Moscow in the struggle with foreign invaders. Russian Tsar Ivan the Terrible liked that place and wanted to make it his northern residence. So in 1568 he started to build a Kremlin in Vologda and a big St. Sofia's Cathedral. Till the end of the 17th century Vologda had served as a distant outpost of Russia in the north.
For centuries, Vologda has been famous for its lace making art. There is a permanent exhibition of Vologda laces and also ancient icons in the museum of Vologda Kremlin.
Vologda Kremlin
The whole complex was created during several centuries starting from the 16th century. At present the Kremlin is used by the local historical and architectural museum of Vologda.
St. Sofia's Cathedral
It was built in 1568-1570 at the command of Ivan the Terrible. The cathedral was decorated with frescoes by the group of painters from Yaroslavl. Along the walls of the Cathedral there are tombs of the bishops. Near the Cathedral there is a bell tower with belfry, where concerts of bell music are held. The Cathedral and the Bell tower are open for visits only in summer.
Spaso-Prilutsky Monastery
Spaso-Prilutsky Monastery of St. Dimitry is one of the biggest monasteries in the north of Russia. It is situated in the north-eastern part of the city on the left bank of the Vologda River. The monastery received its name from the main Spasskaya (Saviour) Church.
