Veliky Novgorod: Russia's ancient capital, a hidden gem south of St. Petersburg!

Veliky Novgorod is one of Russia's oldest cities, located about 120 miles south of St. Petersburg. It is an important window into Russian history. The history of Veliky Novgorod dates back to the 9th century AD, when the local Slavic tribes invited the Nordic chieftain Rurik to rule, thus establishing the Rurik dynasty, the first regime in Russian history. The city witnessed the early development of Russia and has a wealth of historical sites and cultural landscapes. Here is a detailed guide I have put together. If you find it helpful, remember to follow me!

Attractions

- Novgorod Kremlin: One of the oldest surviving castles in Russia, with walls 2,113 meters long. There is a circular route along the walls, offering a panoramic view of the city. Inside is the Millennium of Russia Monument, built in 1862 to commemorate the millennium of Grand Duke Rurik's arrival in Novgorod, with 127 famous Russian figures from the millennium carved on it. Free admission.
- St. Sophia Cathedral: One of the oldest surviving churches in Russia, rebuilt in 1050, with many 14th-century icons preserved inside. The 12th-century bronze Magdeburg Gate of the church is from Germany and is very precious. Tickets cost about 300-500 rubles.
- Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior on Ilyina Street: A stone church rebuilt in 1374, with exquisite reliefs on the exterior and the only surviving frescoes by the famous Byzantine painter Theophanes the Greek inside. It is listed as a World Heritage Site.
- Yaroslavl Square: One of the city's main commercial areas, with many shops and stalls selling souvenirs, as well as small restaurants and cafes nearby.

Food

- Russian kebabs: Made with meat, vegetables, and spices, priced at about 200-500 rubles per skewer, depending on the ingredients and portion size.
- Russian meat pies: Usually made with pork, beef, or chicken, served with bread or rice, priced at about 150-300 rubles per serving.
- Borscht: A classic Russian dish made with beets as the main ingredient, served with beef, potatoes, etc. A bowl of borscht costs about 100-200 rubles.
- Borodinsky bread: Traditional Russian bread, large in size, with a strong wheat aroma and a solid texture, priced at about 50-150 rubles per loaf.

Tips

- Weather and clothing: Veliky Novgorod has long, cold winters and relatively cool summers. Check the weather forecast before traveling. Bring warm clothes such as thick cotton clothes, hats, scarves, and gloves in winter, and long-sleeved jackets in summer.
- Language: Russian is the main language spoken locally, and English is not widely spoken. It is recommended to download a translation app or bring a phrasebook with common Russian phrases.
- Currency and payment: The currency in Russia is the ruble. Some stores and restaurants accept credit cards, but cash is more convenient when shopping at markets or small shops.