About the city One of the oldest cities in Russia, Pskov is situated 283 km southwest of St- Petersburg. The city was founded in the twelth century on the intersection of two rivers, the Pskova and the Velikaya, and was built as a fortress to protect the surrounding lands from the Swedes and the Knight's Orders.

Since ancient times, the city has been famous for it's beauty. Its architecture and paintings were very much influenced by the Novgorod school, but nevertheless, its people managed to work out their own style, especially in icon painting. Many unique frescos are preserved in the churches of Pskov. The main attraction of Pskov is the nineth century Kremlin with it's Trinity Cathedral, the burial place of Pskov princes and home of Russia's most revered Icon of the Virgin. Also worth a visit is the Mirozhsky monastery, and the Chamber of Merchant Pogankin, one of the city's oldest buildings.

The nearby town of Izborsk is much older than Pskov or Moscow. The town's records date back to the year of 862 when only 10 Russian cities existed. Many centuries have passed, but still every corner of Izborsk reflects its history.

The Pskov-Pechory Monastery was founded in 1473 and was named after the underground sand caves nearby which have a natural form of air conditioning and a constant temperature all year round. The relics of monks and members of famous Russian aristocratic families were buried here.

The Pushkin Hills are where you can visit Pushkin's estate, now a museum. The great Russian poet was buried here in the Saint Hill Monastery.