Vologda city, Russia (Wologda)

The capital city of Vologda oblast.

Vologda city overview

Vologda city (other spelling Wologda) is an administrative center of Vologda oblast of Russia standing on the banks of Vologda river. Vologda city is an important cultural, scientific and transport center of Russia. The city is famous for its tasty cheese and butter (possibly the best in Russia). There is an airport in Vologda city.

Vologda city population is about 286,000 (2008); land area - 116 sq. km.

The phone code of Vologda is +7-8172; postal codes are 160000-160530.

Vologda city flag

Vologda city coat of arms

Vologda city map, Russia

Vologda city history

Vologda settlement first mentioning (small village with one church) happened in 1147 in Novgorod Republic chronicles. The village was surrounded by woods and populated by Novgorod Republic people busy with pulling ships from Volga River tributary to Northern Dvina River tributary. It was the way to connect White and Caspian seas.

In 1412 the lands of Novogorod state including Vologda village became the part of Moscow state. Vologda settlement was made an outpost on the Northern border of Moscow state. At the end of 15th century Vologda was larger and more important than historic center of the area Belozerks town.

At the end of 17th century and the beginning of 18th century Vologda town was not only an administrative center of the region but also an important Russian trade center with countries of the West (bread, salt, livestock products). Vologda town became one of Russian major military bases during Russian Tsar Peter the Great ruling.

In the 19th century Vologda city was developing quickly and numerous stone and wooden buildings were constructed. There are a lot of them on the streets on present day Vologda city.

Among the other attractions of Vologda city is Saint Sophia Cathedral (1570). There is a museum occupying Treasury chambers (1659). Also there are baroque churches (18th century) and Neoclassical mansions (19th century) in Vologda city of Russia.