While the borders are closed, you can get as close to Europe as possible in Ivangorod. We will go to the western borders of our country, 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, as well as get acquainted with the works of I.Y. Bilibin, an outstanding graphic artist. *Please note that to enter Ivangorod fortress you have to leave an application for a visit at least four days in advance. How to do this, you can learn in [official Vkontakte group](https://vk.com/ivangorodfortress?w=wall-57835167_3034).* Ivangorod is included in the border zone, so it is necessary to have a passport and a pass, made in advance!
On today's trip we will visit two cities - Koporje and Ivangorod. We will admire huge fortresses, get acquainted with art and enjoy 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 town Koporje, which is one of the oldest medieval fortresses in the North-West of our country. The history of Koporie 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 in Russia and fully corresponds to the Western European architecture of the Middle Ages, it has never undergone a comprehensive restoration. But something always happens for the first time, so at the moment and for the next two years the fortress is closed for restoration. Although you won't get a chance to look inside, a visit to the outside is also worthwhile.
Next we will go to Ivangorod, founded in the XV century by the Moscow Prince Ivan Vasilievich III. Important: the city is a part of the border area, so it is necessary to have a passport and a pass! In the city territory in the two-storeyed 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 the exhibition of I.Y. Bilibin's works. Working mode: From 10:00 to 18:00 (box office until 17:30); Monday and Tuesday are days off.
The main sight 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 the historical events related to this place and we will be able to see Estonia and its famous Narva Castle from the Maiden's Mountain. Opening hours: Without weekends from 10:00 to 18:00 (box office until 17:30). In order to get to the borderland it is necessary to apply at least four days in advance. You can find out how to do this in the [Vkontakte group](https://vk.com/ivangorodfortress?w=wall-57835167_3034).
Take a walk along Ivangorod's restored embankment, where you can take a couple of beautiful photos and enjoy the fresh air! There it is, Europe, on the other side of the river.
Before heading home, stop in for lunch at the highly rated Gastropub in Kengisepp.