Themes

Suzdal:Suzdal

Church of Resurrection in Museum of wooden architecture in Suzdal. Relocated from the village of Potapovo.

The name of the settlement Suzdal first appears in Russian history in the year 1024. Suzdal was a farming community along a major trade route. In its history Suzdal has survived destruction by the Tatars and Poles, and lived through the devastation of fires and plagues. Today Suzdal stands as a representation of centuries of architecture and Russian history. Suzdal Kremlin Walls

The Suzdal Kremlin stands on the left bank of the river Kamenka. On the Kremlin territory are the remnants of Suzdal's first stone church, built in the twelfth century. Today the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God (built 1222-1225) dominates the Kremlin grounds with its five huge domes. Located in the Kremlin is also the main belfry and the snow white Archiepiscopal Palace. Wooden bath houses on the river Kamenka near Suzdal

Wooden bath houses on the river Kamenka near Suzdal

Suzdal's beauty is not limited just to its Kremlin grounds. The center of the town is decorated with various churches standing side by side one another. These churches vary in size, and have domes and belfries of different shapes and designs, which all add the architectural charm of this small town. Suzdal

Suzdal is also well known for its beautiful monasteries. The Monastery of the Lament of Christ (also known as the Spaso-Efiemievsky Monastery) was built in the 16th century. It is marked by its 180 foot high belfry. From the wall of this monastery you can see on the opposite bank of the river the Monastery of the Intercession. Originally founded in 1364, it was rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries. Suzdal

The layout of the grounds of this monastery is best known for its three domed cathedral and the two churches situated next to it. Suzdal

One must visit the village of Suzdal to appreciate its enchanting medieval atmosphere. It is well worth a trip from Moscow, from where it can be reached by car, train, or bus. Composed and translated by
JENNI BLACKWOOD