Veliky Ustyug

Veliky Ustyug is a town in Vologda Oblast in northern Russia, standing where the Sukhona and Yug rivers meet. The settlement spreads across an area with wooden houses, brick churches and administrative buildings, surrounded by forests of the taiga.

The settlement was founded in 1147 and grew into a major trading post on the waterway between Moscow and Arkhangelsk during the 16th century. It lost economic strength in the 18th century as new routes and towns emerged.

The name translates to Great Ustjug, reflecting the settlement's former status before it became known as the home of the Russian winter figure. Visitors walking through the streets can see wooden houses standing alongside brick churches, showing how daily life unfolds in northern Russia.

Buses run regularly from Vologda, with the journey taking several hours over country roads through thinly populated areas. Plan enough time, as distances in northern Russia are wide and winter conditions can lengthen travel.

Since 1998 the town has hosted Ded Moroz, the Russian winter figure, in a dedicated complex on the outskirts with workshops and exhibition rooms. Visitors can tour the residence and see how letters from across the country are answered.