5 things you should do in Murom (PHOTOS)
This city is considered to be the same age as Russia itself! So, what is there to do in the homeland of Ilya Muromets, the most famous Russian superhero?
Murom is one of the most ancient cities in Russia. The first mentions in chronicles date back to the year 862, when, according to legend, the Varangians were called to rule Rus’ and the first Russian statehood was formed. Murom, like Novgorod, was part of the domain of Prince Rurik, the founder of the first Russian princely dynasty of Rurikids.
For many years, Murom was beyond the attention of tourist guides. But now, the new M-12 highway from Moscow to Kazan runs right through the city, so there are a lot more tourists these days. So, what is there to see in this lovely Russian province?
1. Take a boat trip along the Oka River
Murom lies along the banks of the Oka River (the Volga’s tributary). Those who drive along the highway will most certainly cross the beautiful cable-stayed Murom Bridge.
It is worth taking a walk along the embankment, or even swimming in the Oka River on the city beach, if the weather permits.
The best option is to explore the city from the water. An hour-long guided audio tour on the ship will allow you to see the panorama of Orthodox monasteries and learn more about the history of the city. Tickets can be purchased online (website in Russian).
2. Visit the relics of the Russian ‘Romeo and Juliet’
Peter and Fevronia of Murom are venerated Russian saints. Their memorial Day, July 8, is celebrated in Russia as a public holiday, otherwise known as the ‘Day of Family, Love and Fidelity’.
Peter was an ancient Russian prince, who was put in charge of Murom, but he refused a big post for the sake of love with a poor girl named Fevronia. They loved each other so strongly that they died on the same day and, after death, they even ended up in the same coffin. You can find the relics of the couple in the Trinity Monastery in Murom.
3. Feel the true Russian vibe
Murom is the birthplace of Ilya Muromets, the legendary ‘bogatyr’, a.k.a. Russian superhero. He is considered Russia’s most famous folklore character, who is believed to have spent 33 years lying on a stove and then got up one day and decided to defend the Russian lands.
A special pleasure is to stroll around the town of Murom, turning into yards, looking at wooden houses and stone mansions.
As in any ancient city, there are many churches there, each of which carries an ancient history. By the way, a fragment of the relics of Ilya Muromets is in the Transfiguration Monastery, so be sure to visit it!
4. Enjoy fine art
Rare art galleries in Russia’s regions boast such treasures as the Murom Historical and Art Museum. It is based on the home collection of the Counts Uvarov from their estate near Murom.
Among the masterpieces are a unique pencil sketch of the painting ‘The Last Day of Pompeii’ by Karl Bryullov, ‘Swiss Lake’ by Alexei Savrasov, ‘Dreams’ by Vasily Polenov, as well as paintings, graphics and watercolors by other important Russian painters of the 18-20th centuries.
The museum's collection also includes archaeological finds, ceramics, porcelain, ancient weapons and military armor, as well as other exhibits related to the history of the Murom land.
Read more on the museum's official website museum-murom.ru.
5. Try some famous Murom ‘kalach’ streetfood
‘Kalach’ is an old Russian street food that was popular among artisans. It is believed that it has its origins in Murom. This bakery product is so important for the city that three rolls are depicted on the local coat of arms and flag. And you can still try one made according to a traditional recipe.
The dough for the roll has to be ground and kneaded for so long that it turns out to be airy, like a croissant. And that's why the expression: “He's a (well) kneaded kalach!” originated there.
