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Vladimir one of the oldest and most famous cities of Russia is the center of the Vladimir region. The city has the population of 360,000 people and covers the area of 11,145 hectares.Growing cities in the region other than Vladimir are Kovrov, Murom, Alexandrov and Gus-Krustalny. Vladimir has a millenial history; according to the latest data discovered by the historians and archaeologists, Vladimir was founded in 995. In the early part of Vladimir's history the city was the capital of Russia. It was a political, cultural and religious center .
Vladimir is famous for its unique cathedrals dating back to the XII century. Four of them are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The city belongs to the so called "Golden Ring" of Russia and, consequently, presents a major international tourist center. The geographical position of Vladimir makes it an attractive place for business development. The city is located in the Central Region of Russia; 180 km east of Moscow. Such prominent scientific-industrial centers as Nizhni-Novgorod, Ivanovo, Yaroslavl and Ryazan are situated not far from Vladimir. The city is linked with them by railways and highways.
Usually the Golden Ring tour buses come to Vladimir through the famous Golden Gate, stop on the main Sobornaya square to decharge their lot of tourists in front of St Dimitry's and Assumption cathedrals, then they continue their way to the more picturesque Suzdal. But there's more to Vladimir, than the famous churches and some museums that can tell you a lot about the history of old Russia: the town provides interesting insights on provincial Russian life. Don't limit yourself to just a few churches and museums, anyway, for the architecture you can visit the nearby Suzdal. It's much more interesting to just walk around the main avenue, and see how people look and how they live, take some side streets and stroll along quiet residential areas in the centrum and the outskirts. A young artist and restaurator, who, being a bit drunk on Saturday night, helps you to find a way to your hotel and talks incessantly, two old women walking around the famous cathedrals, talking about how it was before, and adoring their town, a family having a picnic on a small field overlooking the railway and Klyazma river, young people spending their time drinking beer and vodka next to the one of the main attractions - Water Tower, a street market set up by babushkas selling home-grown veggies, next to 'Zolotoe Koltso' hotel in suburbs.
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