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The city of Pereslavl-Zalessky ("Pereslavl") is located halfway between Moscow and Yaroslavl. Located on the beach of majestic Lake Pleshcheevo, it offers beautiful and quintessentially Russian vistas. Its tree-lined river and old, traditional, Russian-style houses have been oft-visited by Moscow painters.
Since its founding in the 12th century, Pereslavl's central location has invited constant attack from invaders. The city, therefore, is well-fortified, most famously with a “rampart” topped by a thick wall. Today, the rampart is still a tourist attraction.
The oldest building in Pereslavl-Zalessky is Spaso-Preobrazhensky Sobor (Savior-Transconfiguration Cathedral), located in the heart of Pereslavl. Built between 1152-1157, during Pereslavl's founding, the cathedral has simple, light form. Legend says that the most famous Russian military leader, Duke Alexander Nevsky, credited with defeating the Mongol Hoards, was born here. His monument marks the front of Spaso-Preobrazhensky Sobor.
Pereslavl also contains a number of ancient monasteries. On the left side of the road from Moscow to Yaroslavl you will find Goritsky Monastery, which was founded in the 12th century. Now this complex houses history, architecture and art museums.
Near the lake's beach to the right of the city is the famous Blue Stone. Scientists have examined the stone, but have purportedly been unable to classify it. It came from space, they say. Current folklore says that the Blue Stone has healing power, so people keep coming to touch it. Nearby there are also the fabled “Varvara Springs,” from which people drink from and claim to be healed from any number of maladies.
For a taste of true Russian village life and the "old way of living," a trip to Pereslavl is highly recommended. Travel the city by old-fashioned long boat (the type only local fishermen make and use to boat around the lake) to see most places of interest in Pereslavl-Zalessky in one memorable sweep. Find Out More!
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