Golden Gate, Vladimir, Russia

The Golden Gate of Vladimir, constructed between 1158 and 1164, is the only preserved ancient Russian city gate. A museum inside focuses on the history of the Mongol invasion of Russia in the 13th century.

The Golden Gates existed in the holiest cities of Eastern Orthodoxy: Jerusalem, Constantinople, and Kiev. On making Vladimir his capital, Andrew the Pious aspired to emulate these structures, commissioning a lofty tower over the city's main gate to be erected in limestone and lined with golden plaques. According to ancient Russian chronicles, the masons were invited from Friedrich Barbarossa. The main arch used to stand 15 meters tall. The structure was topped with a barbican church dedicated to the Deposition of the Virgin's Robe and symbolizing the Theotokos's protection of Andrew's capital.

The gate survived the Mongol destruction of Vladimir in 1237. By the late 18th century, however, the structure had so deteriorated that Catherine the Great was afraid to pass through the arch for fear of its tumbling down. In 1779, she ordered detailed measurements and drawings of the monument to be executed. In 1795, after many discussions, the vaults and barbican church were demolished. Two flanking round towers were constructed in order to reinforce the structure, and artisans then reconstructed the barbican, following the drawings made in 1779.

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User Reviews

Venkatesh Kumar (5 years ago)
Token of history. Shows how the beautiful city of Vladimir was born !!!

Nhatz Mania Igorota (5 years ago)
Been here, it looks amazing! Though in my inner thoughts : it doesn't look like a gate, nevermind it looks awesome though

Nicholas Carter (5 years ago)
Interesting, but not a huge draw for younger kids.

Aleksandr Fedorov (5 years ago)
Interesting place to see where old city started. From this place uou can walk along the street to see al other monuments.

Oleg Naumov (5 years ago)
The Golden Gate of Vladimir, built in 1158-1164 according to order of Duke Andrey of Vladimir and Suzdal (1111-1174) also known as Andrey Bogolyubsky (Godloving). There were only four Golden Gates in the world, in Jerusalem, Constantinople, Kiev and Vladimir. That gatehouse has over gate church atop. Here, from internal side, you Cann see the Icon of Virgin Mary with the Child over the passage. Leaves of the gate were covered with golden foliage and reflected golden light on the building. Golden Gate saw the assaults of Mongols under Batu Khan (? - 1255) in February 1238 and Tartars of Edigu Khan (1352-1419) in 1408. There is the Historical Museum inside.

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