Vladimir (Влади́мир) is a city in Russia, administrative center of Vladimir Oblast. It is located on the river Klyazma in 200 km to the east of Moscow. Geographical location . Population: 298,000 inhabitants (2004). Vladimir is part of the touristic Golden ring of the ancient Russian cities around Moscow and a significant touristic center.

History

Vladimir was founded in 990 by Vladimir The Great , prince of Kiev at that time. Later it became the center of Vladimir-Suzdal principality. Vladimir Monomakh's grandson Andrey Bogolyubskiy transferred the seat of Great Princes of Russia from Kiev to Vladimir 50 years later.

Vladimir was plundered by tatars of Batu Khan in 1238. Since 1299 it was the seat of the metropolitans of Russia. Since the middle of 14th century Vladimir became a part of Moscow principality and lost its significance.

Tourist attractions

• Assumption (Uspenski) cathedral (1158, 1185)
• Church of St. Demetrius (12th century)
• Golden gates - the old town gates (1164)
• numerous other ancient churches and monasteries

External link

• History of Moscow