Located in northwestern Russia, approximately 200 km (124 mi) south of St. Petersburg and 540 km (335 mi) northwest of Moscow, Veliky Novgorod is one of the most historically important cities in Russia. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, the city and its environs are dotted with historically important religious buildings.
There are likely more churches and monasteries per resident here than in any other Russian city. It’s only challenger would be Suzdal, 220 km (137 mi) east of Moscow.
Veliky Novgorod lies along the banks of the Volkhov River, immediately north of Lake Ilmen. Founded in the middle of the 10th century, at its peak, it was one of the largest cities in Europe.
While most of the historical buildings are located around the centre of the city, many, mainly the larger monasteries and the many wooden churches of Vitoslavlitsy are located within a 30 to 60-minute drive from the city centre.
☛ Read more: Places of Worship
Blog post and photos by Peter who has been travelling almost full-time since 2005 and has been to over 122 countries. He visited several countries, such as Japan, more than 20 times. Peter is Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of GlobeRovers Magazine, an independent travel magazine focused on intrepid destinations.