Kostroma

Kostroma

Founded in the 12^th century, from the 13^th century it was the center of an independent principality. Like many Russian cities, Kostroma was rebuilt in the 17th century according to the general plan approved by Empress Catherine II.

 

The collection of shopping arcades was left almost intact, as well as the buildings in the city center.

A must-see for history lovers –  Ipatyev Monastery (a little bit out of the way from the city center). It is where young Mikhail Romanov was appointed to the throne in March 1613 and marked the beginning of a more than 300 year dynasty of Russian tsars and emperors.