The Volga

Since the dawn of time, people from around the World have used waterways as important highways and avenues for commerce. The Volga is one of the largest rivers in Europe, and since the 8th century, the Volga has become one of the major trading routes used to transfer goods from Europe to the countries of Caucasus, Central Asia, Persia and India. Over the centuries, many towns and cities have been founded and grown at strategically important points on the river and the Yaroslavl Region has five important cities and towns situated on its banks; Uglitch, Myshkin, Rybinsk, Tutayev as well as the city of Yaroslavl itself.

The city of Yaroslavl is located where the Volga and the Kotorosl rivers meet.

There are many churches and other interesting buildings located on the banks of the river Volga, and during the summer months many cruise ships travel along the Volga. Many visitors to Yaroslavl arrive this way.

Of course, in Russia, it can get very cold in the winter months, and it is common for the Volga to freeze over totally for several months in the Yaroslavl Region.

Here are some photos of the Volga around Yaroslavl: