Slobodskoy

Slobodskoy sits on the right bank of the Vyatka River, surrounded by dense forests and agricultural land about 35 kilometers northeast of Kirov. Today the town functions as an administrative center with schools, hospitals, and connections to neighboring regions.

The settlement began in 1505 as a fortified outpost positioned on important trade routes heading toward Siberia. Over time it grew into a significant trading hub that shaped the region.

Walking through the streets, you notice brick and stone buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries that shape how the town looks today. These structures reflect the urban development that took place during those periods and remain central to the town's appearance.

The town is relatively compact and easy to explore on foot, with most facilities concentrated in the center. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and prepare for seasonal changes, as weather varies considerably through the year.

The original wooden Kremlin from the early period contained three churches and housed several hundred residents within its walls. This early structure reveals how important the location was as both a defensive point and seat of authority.