Bogolyubovo

Bogolyubovo is a lesser-known destination in Golden Ring region of Russia. This small settlement about 7 miles east of Vladimir enjoys a legend-decorated past and is the home to a UNESCO-protected church. It’s situated where the Nerl River and the Klyazma River meet, and this historically strategic and picturesque location may have been the reason for its establishment, though the religious enthusiasm of its founder may have also played a part in its history.

History of Bogolyubovo

It’s unclear where myth and history meet in the story of Bogolyubovo’s establishment. The name of the town originates from its founder, Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky (whose last name means God-loving), Yuri Dolgoruky’s son. Bogolyubsky built a palace here to act as a residence while he attempted to unite Russian principalities under his authority.

It’s said that Prince Bogolyubsky had a vision of the Virgin Mary, who directed him to establish Bogolyubsky. From this vision also originates the Bogolyubskaya Icon of the Theotokos, which today is not located in Bogolyubovo but in neighboring Vladimir. The famous Our Lady of Vladimir icon, now in the Tretyakov Gallery, also got its name as a result of Prince Bogolyubsky having transferred the icon to Vladimir.

Sights in Bogolyubovo

• Church of the Intercession on the Nerl: Part of the White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal, which are UNESCO-protected Russian World Heritage sites, this church has been virtually untouched since its construction in the 12th century. Built on the order of Andrei Bogolyubsky, it occupies a spot on the Nerl River. When the river floods in the springtime, it can make getting to the church difficult, but the annual rising of the waters produces a magical effect: the church seems to float on the water.

  Visitors to Bogolyubovo must be prepared to walk to see this church. It is accessible only on foot and won’t be immediately visible to someone unfamiliar with Bogolyubovo’s layout. In the summer season, the town sees plenty of tourists, so either follow a group that looks like it knows where it’s going or ask to be pointed in the direction of the church by one of the locals.

  The Church of the Intercession is celebrated for its proportions, its location, and the builders’ precocious use of stone at a time when wood was the building material of choice. Of course it too is surrounded by legend, which says that Andrei Bogolyubsky founded the church in memory of a son killed in a military battle.

• Bogolyubovo Monastery: What remains of the monastery and Andrei Bogolyubsky’s palace may be difficult to discern from the newer buildings that have been constructed or reconstructed in his historic religious complex. Look for the stairs where Prince Bogolyubsky was supposedly slain—they’re incorporated into the Church of the Virgin’s Nativity. Inside this church is an exhibit about the town’s development and archaeological finds from Bogolyubovo.

Getting to Bogolyubovo

The best way to get to Bogolyubovo is by bus from Vladimir. City buses run regularly. Because you’ll probably want to incorporate your visit to Bogolyubovo into your visit to Vladimir, plan to visit this smaller town during the day and return to Vladimir before nightfall.

Dining in Bogolyubovo

Visitors to Bogolyubovo won’t find much in the way of restaurants in the town except for a couple of cafes. Grocery stores selling staples may be one option for food. Pack a lunch you’ve brought with you from Vladimir or visit the town between mealtimes and take a snack. You’ll do some walking here if you want to see the Church of the Intercession, so you may need to refuel during your visit.