The historicity of Russia
and the importance
of the cities in tourism
and the importance
of the cities in tourism
Ahsan Ali
Ahsan AliMA in Diplomacy and International Affairs, ADA University- Russia, a vast state spanning from Europe to Asia, is steeped in the history of a cultural legacy that goes back to the millennium. From the early days of Kievan Rus to Tsardom and the transformative Soviet Union and the modern Russian state, Russia has experienced pivotal moments and events which changed history forever, shaping their identity and influence. Deep historical foundation can be seen in its cities, serving as living museums of the national heritage. Cities like Moscow, and St. Petersburg, stand as the testaments of Russian imperial grandeur and revolutionary spirit, meanwhile, ancient towns such as Novgorod and Suzdal offer glimpses of the Russian civilization. These cities are not just tourist destinations; instead, they offer an understanding of the complex tapestry of Russia’s culture, history, and enduring legacy.
Moscow
It is the city where Ivan IV was crowned as Tsar of Russia, establishing the Tsardom of Russia. In 1812 Napoleon occupied deserted Moscow before a disastrous retreat. In 1918 Moscow became the capital of Soviet Russia.
The site that fascinates one is the Kremlin. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes palaces, cathedrals, and the official residence of the President of Russia, and has been the seat of the Russian power for centuries. Next to the Kremlin is Red Square, the famous square surrounded by the symbols of Russia: St. Basil’s Cathedral known for its onion domes, the recognizable Lenin’s Mausoleum, the red-brick building of the historical museum, the small white-red Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan with the venerated icon, and others.
World-renowned venue for opera and ballet, the Bolshoi Theatre represents Moscow’s rich cultural life, and the Tretyakov Gallery is a museum consisting significant collection of Russian art from ancient to contemporary works.
There is no denying that today’s Moscow blends the old with the new, and is a major financial center with modern skyscrapers, diverse culinary lines, and ornate Moscow Metro stations. Moscow’s combination of cultural richness, historical depth, and modern inventiveness makes it a destination for anyone interested in feeling the essence of Russia.
There are two towns northeast of Moscow that played a pivotal role in the formation of the early Russian state.
It is the city where Ivan IV was crowned as Tsar of Russia, establishing the Tsardom of Russia. In 1812 Napoleon occupied deserted Moscow before a disastrous retreat. In 1918 Moscow became the capital of Soviet Russia.
The site that fascinates one is the Kremlin. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes palaces, cathedrals, and the official residence of the President of Russia, and has been the seat of the Russian power for centuries. Next to the Kremlin is Red Square, the famous square surrounded by the symbols of Russia: St. Basil’s Cathedral known for its onion domes, the recognizable Lenin’s Mausoleum, the red-brick building of the historical museum, the small white-red Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan with the venerated icon, and others.
World-renowned venue for opera and ballet, the Bolshoi Theatre represents Moscow’s rich cultural life, and the Tretyakov Gallery is a museum consisting significant collection of Russian art from ancient to contemporary works.
There is no denying that today’s Moscow blends the old with the new, and is a major financial center with modern skyscrapers, diverse culinary lines, and ornate Moscow Metro stations. Moscow’s combination of cultural richness, historical depth, and modern inventiveness makes it a destination for anyone interested in feeling the essence of Russia.
There are two towns northeast of Moscow that played a pivotal role in the formation of the early Russian state.
Just like Vladimir, Suzdal (founded in 1024) is also one the oldest towns in Russia and an important religious center with monasteries, churches, and convents. Instead of industrialization, it retained its medieval status.
Vladimir and Suzdal
Both towns are historically signifying cities in Russia and are renowned for forming the “Golden Ring”. Founded in 1108, Vladimir was important in forming the early Russian state. It still has beautiful architecture, like the medieval church known as the Dormition Cathedral built between 1158 and 1160, and known as the mother church of medieval Rus’. There is St. Demetrius Cathedral built between 1194 and 1197 has a carving depicting the Bible, mythological saints, and creatures, marking medieval Russian architecture. There is a fortification known as the Golden Gate, which is the main entrance to Vladimir, and the Vladimir Suzdal Museum that showcases the rich history of the city.
Just like Vladimir, Suzdal (founded in 1024) is also one the oldest towns in Russia and an important religious center with monasteries, churches, and convents. Instead of industrialization, it retained its medieval status. It also has old structures with the Suzdal Kremlin originating back to the 10th century including the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin built in the 13th century and adorned with blue domes and golden stars. The Spaso-Evfimiev Monastery was founded in the 14th century and played a key role in the religious life of the region. There is another 14th-century monastery by the name of Pokrovsky Monastery with white stone architecture. It was the place of exile for the royal women. To offer rural life, there is the Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life, and an open-air museum showcasing Russian wooden architecture, including houses, windmills, and churches.
Both towns are historically signifying cities in Russia and are renowned for forming the “Golden Ring”. Founded in 1108, Vladimir was important in forming the early Russian state. It still has beautiful architecture, like the medieval church known as the Dormition Cathedral built between 1158 and 1160, and known as the mother church of medieval Rus’. There is St. Demetrius Cathedral built between 1194 and 1197 has a carving depicting the Bible, mythological saints, and creatures, marking medieval Russian architecture. There is a fortification known as the Golden Gate, which is the main entrance to Vladimir, and the Vladimir Suzdal Museum that showcases the rich history of the city.
Just like Vladimir, Suzdal (founded in 1024) is also one the oldest towns in Russia and an important religious center with monasteries, churches, and convents. Instead of industrialization, it retained its medieval status. It also has old structures with the Suzdal Kremlin originating back to the 10th century including the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin built in the 13th century and adorned with blue domes and golden stars. The Spaso-Evfimiev Monastery was founded in the 14th century and played a key role in the religious life of the region. There is another 14th-century monastery by the name of Pokrovsky Monastery with white stone architecture. It was the place of exile for the royal women. To offer rural life, there is the Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life, and an open-air museum showcasing Russian wooden architecture, including houses, windmills, and churches.
Photo by Dmitriy Soloduhin on Unsplash
Photo by Lydia Gulinkina on Unsplash
Photo by Mihail Tregubov on Unsplash
St. Petersburg
Known as the “Window to the West”, the city was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 and then served as the capital of Russia for two centuries. St. Petersburg's European architectural style, historical depth, and cultural influence with extraordinary beauty, significance, and history is referred to as the “Cultural Capital” of Russia. Due to the preserving of its rich cultural heritage, architecture, and deep historicity, it has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Under Tsarist Russia, it was the center of political, cultural, and social life, with the construction of spectacular palaces and thriving Russian art and literature. When Bolsheviks were coming to power, the city was known as Petrograd. And during the Soviet times it was named Leningrad and became the symbol of resistance and sacrifice when Nazi forces attacked USSR and besieged the city. After the war Leningrad was awarded the title “Hero city”.
The Winter Palace, which was once the official residence of Russian tsars, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the splendor of the Russian monarchy. It is today part of the Hermitage Museum, which is the colossal and most distinguished museum in the world.
St. Isaac is one of the world’s largest domed cathedrals and is known for its lavish interior and massive golden dome. The iconic Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is another stunning architectural site and is the most photographed building in the city.
The Peter and Paul Fortress has remarkable architecture, too, and houses the Peter and Paul Cathedral, where many Russian empresses and emperors are buried.
Great writers such as Alexander Pushkin and Fyodor Dostoevsky, poets Alexander Blok and Anna Akhmatova, composers Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Alexander Borodin, Dmitri Shostakovich, were among the city’s residents.
Mariinsky Theatre is one of the renowned opera and ballet venues, where classic Russian works have been produced. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals while being a modern vibrant city and retaining its historic charm. The above-named sites, the Mikhaylovski Palace, Nevsky Avenue, and the Neva Embankment make it spectacular. The spacious system of canal bridges earned the name “Venice of the North” for St. Petersburg. The unique atmosphere of the interconnection of history and our time makes St. Petersburg an indelible destination for travelers.
Known as the “Window to the West”, the city was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 and then served as the capital of Russia for two centuries. St. Petersburg's European architectural style, historical depth, and cultural influence with extraordinary beauty, significance, and history is referred to as the “Cultural Capital” of Russia. Due to the preserving of its rich cultural heritage, architecture, and deep historicity, it has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Under Tsarist Russia, it was the center of political, cultural, and social life, with the construction of spectacular palaces and thriving Russian art and literature. When Bolsheviks were coming to power, the city was known as Petrograd. And during the Soviet times it was named Leningrad and became the symbol of resistance and sacrifice when Nazi forces attacked USSR and besieged the city. After the war Leningrad was awarded the title “Hero city”.
The Winter Palace, which was once the official residence of Russian tsars, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the splendor of the Russian monarchy. It is today part of the Hermitage Museum, which is the colossal and most distinguished museum in the world.
St. Isaac is one of the world’s largest domed cathedrals and is known for its lavish interior and massive golden dome. The iconic Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is another stunning architectural site and is the most photographed building in the city.
The Peter and Paul Fortress has remarkable architecture, too, and houses the Peter and Paul Cathedral, where many Russian empresses and emperors are buried.
Great writers such as Alexander Pushkin and Fyodor Dostoevsky, poets Alexander Blok and Anna Akhmatova, composers Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Alexander Borodin, Dmitri Shostakovich, were among the city’s residents.
Mariinsky Theatre is one of the renowned opera and ballet venues, where classic Russian works have been produced. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals while being a modern vibrant city and retaining its historic charm. The above-named sites, the Mikhaylovski Palace, Nevsky Avenue, and the Neva Embankment make it spectacular. The spacious system of canal bridges earned the name “Venice of the North” for St. Petersburg. The unique atmosphere of the interconnection of history and our time makes St. Petersburg an indelible destination for travelers.
Photo by Tamara Malaniy on Unsplash
Photo by Maria Rodideal on Unsplash
Photo by Vitali Adutskevich on Unsplash
Novgorod
Often referred to as Veliky Novgorod, it is one of the oldest cities of Russia and is considered the cradle of the Russian culture and statehood. Novgorod is chronicled in 859 and the city was a major trading, cultural, and political center in the early Russian state playing a vital role as a trade hub between the Baltic and the Byzantine empire, and as a gateway to northern Europe. Novgorod avoided the Mongol invasions which further paved the way for prosperity and the existence of the old Novgorod Republic. During the period of Imperial Russia, Novgorod was an important religious and cultural center.
The Novgorod Kremlin, or Novgorod Detinets, is a fortified complex that dates back to the 11th century and has been the imminent religious and political center. Within its walls are important buildings including St. Sophia Cathedral, which dates back to 1045 to 1050. It is the oldest church in Russia and is known for its primordial frescoes and domes.
Today, Yaroslav’s Court and the Novgorod Marketplace remind of the domination as once the economic hub of medieval Novgorod. Another monument is the Millennium of Russia which commemorates the 1,000th anniversary of the arrival of Varangians and the symbol is of Russian unity and history as the characters are from various times of the Russian history, including warriors, rulers, and cultural figures. Novgorod is renowned for its iconic paintings which have produced some famous and revered figures of Russian Orthodox Christianity. Novgorod remains a cultural and historical center that still fascinates tourists, scholars, and history enthusiasts from around the world especially with the city being small in size and well-preserved to be an accessible destination for travelers with important cultural heritage.
Often referred to as Veliky Novgorod, it is one of the oldest cities of Russia and is considered the cradle of the Russian culture and statehood. Novgorod is chronicled in 859 and the city was a major trading, cultural, and political center in the early Russian state playing a vital role as a trade hub between the Baltic and the Byzantine empire, and as a gateway to northern Europe. Novgorod avoided the Mongol invasions which further paved the way for prosperity and the existence of the old Novgorod Republic. During the period of Imperial Russia, Novgorod was an important religious and cultural center.
The Novgorod Kremlin, or Novgorod Detinets, is a fortified complex that dates back to the 11th century and has been the imminent religious and political center. Within its walls are important buildings including St. Sophia Cathedral, which dates back to 1045 to 1050. It is the oldest church in Russia and is known for its primordial frescoes and domes.
Today, Yaroslav’s Court and the Novgorod Marketplace remind of the domination as once the economic hub of medieval Novgorod. Another monument is the Millennium of Russia which commemorates the 1,000th anniversary of the arrival of Varangians and the symbol is of Russian unity and history as the characters are from various times of the Russian history, including warriors, rulers, and cultural figures. Novgorod is renowned for its iconic paintings which have produced some famous and revered figures of Russian Orthodox Christianity. Novgorod remains a cultural and historical center that still fascinates tourists, scholars, and history enthusiasts from around the world especially with the city being small in size and well-preserved to be an accessible destination for travelers with important cultural heritage.
Yekaterinburg
Located in the Ural Mountains, it is at the strategic location on the borders between Europe and Asia and is regarded as the “Gateway to Siberia.” It serves as a cultural, industrial, commercial, and historical hub due to its geographical position.
The city was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1723 as a metallurgical factory town and has been an important industrial town ever since. It is also the same place where the imperial Romanov family was executed at the Ipatiev House in July 1918. Today the Ipatiev House is a memorial Church of the Blood, one of the most significant landmarks in Yekaterinburg and a place of commemoration of the tragic end of the Russian Empire. Ganina Yama Monastery is a monastery complex in remembrance of the Romanov family.
To have an outlook of the old structure of the 18th century, there is a city pond created by the damming of the Iset River, still popular for tourists and locals. In a park by Iset River, there is a giant sculpture of the keyboard known as the QWERTY monument, which is a representation of the city’s modernity and technological aspirations. After Moscow's tallest buildings, Vysotsky Skyscraper which at 188 meters is the tallest building that offers a scenic view of the city and the Ural Mountains. The production of high-quality classical and contemporary works of theatre, Yekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theatre was opened in 1912 and rated third important after Moscow and St. Petersburg. Yekaterinburg is a center for education and innovation in Russia, with cultural diversity and vibrant arts, and a modern industrial city for the economic base of Russia. The Ural Mountains just a distance away from the city also offer skiing, hiking, and exploration.
It has a unique character of Europe and Asia combined, the blend of Western and Eastern influences in cuisine, culture, and architecture. Yekaterinburg is the border city of Europe.
Located in the Ural Mountains, it is at the strategic location on the borders between Europe and Asia and is regarded as the “Gateway to Siberia.” It serves as a cultural, industrial, commercial, and historical hub due to its geographical position.
The city was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1723 as a metallurgical factory town and has been an important industrial town ever since. It is also the same place where the imperial Romanov family was executed at the Ipatiev House in July 1918. Today the Ipatiev House is a memorial Church of the Blood, one of the most significant landmarks in Yekaterinburg and a place of commemoration of the tragic end of the Russian Empire. Ganina Yama Monastery is a monastery complex in remembrance of the Romanov family.
To have an outlook of the old structure of the 18th century, there is a city pond created by the damming of the Iset River, still popular for tourists and locals. In a park by Iset River, there is a giant sculpture of the keyboard known as the QWERTY monument, which is a representation of the city’s modernity and technological aspirations. After Moscow's tallest buildings, Vysotsky Skyscraper which at 188 meters is the tallest building that offers a scenic view of the city and the Ural Mountains. The production of high-quality classical and contemporary works of theatre, Yekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theatre was opened in 1912 and rated third important after Moscow and St. Petersburg. Yekaterinburg is a center for education and innovation in Russia, with cultural diversity and vibrant arts, and a modern industrial city for the economic base of Russia. The Ural Mountains just a distance away from the city also offer skiing, hiking, and exploration.
It has a unique character of Europe and Asia combined, the blend of Western and Eastern influences in cuisine, culture, and architecture. Yekaterinburg is the border city of Europe.
Kazan
Kazan is Russia’s vibrant and historically significant city founded in the late 10th or early 11th century on the banks of the Volga River. It has a blending of the Russian and Tatar cultures, and is referred to as the “Third Capital of Russia.”
First, it was part of the powerful Kazan Khanate, then in 1552 Ivan IV conquered it and had the Kazan Kremlin constructed. The Kazan Kremlin, another UNESCO world heritage site in Russia, is an iconic landmark of Russian Orthodox and Tatar Muslim architecture. Qol Sharif, the one part of the Kazan Kremlin is one of the largest mosques of Russia, and an important part of Tatarstan’s Islamic heritage. The other part is the Annunciation Cathedral which is the oldest Orthodox Church in Kazan and marks Russian Orthodox influence in the city and the region. Kazan is known as the city of religious tolerance and harmony, a melting pot of Russian and Tatar traditions, and the cultural heart of Tatars with preserving the Tatar language, literature, and music. The symbol of the coexistence of different religions and cultures in Kazan is the Temple of All Religions – a unique architectural complex that includes a mosque, a synagogue, and a church.
To see the social life, walk down the Bauman Street – a pedestrian thoroughfare filled with historic buildings, cafes, and shops for tourists. The Kazan Federal University is one of the prestigious institutes with notable alumni who changed the history of Russia and contributed to scientific breakthroughs, including mathematician Nikolai Lobachevsky and Vladimir Lenin.
The city’s modernization with new infrastructure and resource allocation are visible in business, and tourism. In sports also, as it hosted the 2013 Summer Universiade, the 2015 World Aquatics Championship, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the 2024 Phygital Games of the Future, the 2024 BRICS Sports Games, and several Global Youth Summits. Kazan's blend of Western and Eastern influences, culinary traditions, and modern art vibrancy make it Russia’s fascinating city.
Kazan is Russia’s vibrant and historically significant city founded in the late 10th or early 11th century on the banks of the Volga River. It has a blending of the Russian and Tatar cultures, and is referred to as the “Third Capital of Russia.”
First, it was part of the powerful Kazan Khanate, then in 1552 Ivan IV conquered it and had the Kazan Kremlin constructed. The Kazan Kremlin, another UNESCO world heritage site in Russia, is an iconic landmark of Russian Orthodox and Tatar Muslim architecture. Qol Sharif, the one part of the Kazan Kremlin is one of the largest mosques of Russia, and an important part of Tatarstan’s Islamic heritage. The other part is the Annunciation Cathedral which is the oldest Orthodox Church in Kazan and marks Russian Orthodox influence in the city and the region. Kazan is known as the city of religious tolerance and harmony, a melting pot of Russian and Tatar traditions, and the cultural heart of Tatars with preserving the Tatar language, literature, and music. The symbol of the coexistence of different religions and cultures in Kazan is the Temple of All Religions – a unique architectural complex that includes a mosque, a synagogue, and a church.
To see the social life, walk down the Bauman Street – a pedestrian thoroughfare filled with historic buildings, cafes, and shops for tourists. The Kazan Federal University is one of the prestigious institutes with notable alumni who changed the history of Russia and contributed to scientific breakthroughs, including mathematician Nikolai Lobachevsky and Vladimir Lenin.
The city’s modernization with new infrastructure and resource allocation are visible in business, and tourism. In sports also, as it hosted the 2013 Summer Universiade, the 2015 World Aquatics Championship, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the 2024 Phygital Games of the Future, the 2024 BRICS Sports Games, and several Global Youth Summits. Kazan's blend of Western and Eastern influences, culinary traditions, and modern art vibrancy make it Russia’s fascinating city.
When it comes to visiting Russia, Moscow and St. Petersburg are only known to the outside world, but the country has more jewels to offer. The people who have already been to Russian cities highly praise their beauty and pageantry. Though Vladimir and Suzdal are almost unheard-of towns, they are must-see for visitors interested in understanding the deep history of Russia and its unique character. Russian cities from West to East and from North to South carry stunning landmarks and have a lot to offer.
Read more in Meeting Russia Journal!
Read more in Meeting Russia Journal!