Rostov Velikhiy

Rostov Velikhiy is one of the oldest towns in Russia and an important tourist centre of the Golden ring. It dates back to the year 862. It is located on the shores of Lake Nero in Yaroslavl Oblast. While the official name of the town is Rostov, it is better known to Russians as Rostov Velikhiy, i.e. Rostov the Great. This name is used to distinguish it from Rostov on Don, which is now a much larger city. The area of Rostov Velikhiy is rich in old architecture. It includes architecture shown in old wooden Churches, monasteries and surrounding buildings.