Uglich, Historic town on Volga River in Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia
Uglich sits on the right bank of the Volga and displays classic Russian town planning, with low houses in wood and stone grouped around several churches featuring golden domes. The waterfront promenade runs through parks and narrow lanes that lead to the center, where market squares and older buildings stand together.
The settlement emerged in the 10th century and later became the seat of its own principality, absorbed into Moscow in the 15th century. The death of a young prince in the late 16th century marked a turning point in Russian history and shaped the town's identity.
Residents maintain the traditions of Volga settlements, caring for wooden houses with hand-carved window frames that line the quiet streets. Local festivals blend Orthodox customs with regional songs heard in small courtyards and on the town squares throughout the year.
Visitors reach the center on foot from the dock within minutes and find small shops and cafés along the side streets. In summer the paths along the river are pleasant for walking, while winter calls for warm clothing and sturdy footwear.
A mechanical museum displays automata and clocks from the 19th century that visitors can set in motion themselves. The collection includes toys and musical instruments once popular in Russian households and rarely seen today.
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