Suzdal

Small town in the Vladimir oblast (region) of the Russian Federation, 30 km/19 mi north of Vladimir; population (1990) 12,900. Suzdal's well-preserved collection of church buildings dating from the 13th to 17th centuries has made it a popular tourist centre.

Suzdal has been known since the 11th century (first mentioned in 1024). It was the capital of Rostov-Suzdal principality from 1095 to 1157, and of Vladimir-Suzdal principality from 1238, until it united with Novgorod in the late 14th century. It became part of Muscovy from the mid-15th century, developing into a wealthy monastic and trading centre.

Buildings of historical interest include the Saviour Monastery of St Euthymius, the Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral, and numerous small churches erected by wealthy merchants in the 17th and 18th centuries.