This route is perfect for those who want to experience the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. We will go to the western borders of our country, we will see the oldest medieval fortresses that served as a shield for the Russian lands. We will visit the steep slopes of Maiden's Hill, which offers a picturesque view of the Narva River and the Estonian castle of the same name, and get acquainted with the works of I.Y. Bilibin, an outstanding graphic artist. Please note: to visit Ivangorod you have to bring your passport.
On today's trip we will visit two cities - Koporje and Ivangorod. We will admire the huge fortresses, get acquainted with art and visit the active exhibition "Ivangorod in the past" and enjoy the picturesque views.
Let's hit the road! To feel more confident on the road, come to the filling station "Gazpromneft" - refuel with quality fuel to full, inflate the tires, fill the washbasin and take coffee with healthy snacks! Cool emotions from the trip!
The first point of our journey will be the Old Russian city of Koporie, which is one of the oldest medieval fortresses in the Northwest of our country. The history of the Kopor fortress dates back to the Livonian Order and the campaign of Alexander Nevsky in 1240, and in 2001 the territory officially received the status of a museum. The fortress is unique for Russia and fully corresponds to the Western European architecture of the Middle Ages, it has never undergone complex restoration, so we can see the structure in its original form.
On the territory of the Kopor fortress there is a stone cathedral, which was built in XI century. The temple has been burned and rebuilt several times during its history, but it has still reached our days. Today the cathedral is functioning, and there are divine services there.
Now it's time for lunch! I suggest we spend it in a cozy family café "Okay". The menu includes dishes of Russian cuisine, and delicious pork ribs, borscht and pancakes are served here. In warm season you can have lunch on the veranda.
Then we will go to Ivangorod, founded in XV century by Moscow Prince Ivan Vasilyevich III. Important: the city is part of the border zone, so be sure to have your passport and pass! In the city, in a two-storey building of the XIX century - a former mansion - there is an art gallery. We will visit the permanent exhibition "Ivangorod in the past", where we will get acquainted with the materials of local history and archaeology, as well as an exhibition of works by I.Y. Bilibin.
The main attraction of Ivangorod is its fortress, built in the XV century on the right bank of the Narva River. While visiting the fortress, we will learn about historical events connected with this place and will be able to see Estonia and its famous Narva Castle from Maiden's Mountain.
After a busy day, I suggest taking a stroll along the restored Ivangorod quay, where you can take a couple of beautiful pictures and enjoy the fresh air!
We will finish our journey with a delicious dinner at Gorki Restaurant. Facility's interior is made in classical style with Scottish accents. The chef and his team offer guests Russian and European dishes, cooked from fresh farm products!