Discover Izborsk: Fortress, Springs and History

Izborsk Fortress is an important and well-preserved monument of Russian military architecture from the 14th to the 17th century. It covers 2.4 hectares; its walls are 623 metres long. The first settlement on Truvor’s Hillfort was established no later than the turn of the 7th to 8th century.

The dates mark different historical layers. The first settlement on Truvor’s Hillfort was established no later than the turn of the 7th to 8th century; the fortress represents Russian military architecture from the 14th to the 17th century. Several centuries lie between these beginnings and the later fortress period. The dates can therefore be seen as different points of reference, rather than being combined into a single founding date.

The St Nicholas Cathedral of Izborsk offers another perspective. It is one of the oldest churches on Russian soil dedicated to St Nicholas. Settlement history, church architecture and military architecture thus provide different themes for exploring the place. When comparing historic sites, you can consider whether you are more interested in early settlement, religious architecture or a well-preserved fortification.

The Slovenian Springs, also known as the Springs of the Twelve Apostles, lie near Izborsk. Between carbonate rocks, 12 to 15 individual streams emerge. They plunge down a steep slope with limestone outcrops, forming a cascade of waterfalls. The number of springs and their combined descent down the slope describe two aspects of this landscape: its geological form and its waterfall scenery.

The springs are a popular nature destination and also an Orthodox shrine. This destination therefore combines landscape and religious significance. If you are planning a visit, check the current access arrangements beforehand.

The house of merchant Shvedov displays a large and varied collection of samovars from well-known Russian factories, as well as handmade samovars. These include large family samovars, miniature samovars for several cups and travel samovars. The different forms illustrate the range of the collection. Traditional folk costumes of Russians and the Seto are also on display.

In the house of merchant Belyanin, an ensemble exhibition recreates the sociocultural environment from the 18th to the 20th century. Its focus therefore differs from a collection of individual objects and costumes: the emphasis is on a social context spanning several centuries. Check the current visitor arrangements before planning a visit.

A museum audio guide includes a map of Izborsk’s main sites and an audio pen. The route takes you to Izborsk Fortress, the Slovenian Springs and Truvor’s Hillfort; the texts are available in Russian and English. This specifies both the stops and the language options. Before your trip, check whether and how the audio guide is currently available.

Discover more destinations: Pushkinskiye Gory, Zhidilov Bor, Zaborovka, Strugi Krasnye, Gdov, Rechki, Boroviki and Kholyuny.

When was the first settlement on Truvor’s Hillfort established?

It was established no later than the turn of the 7th to 8th century.

What is special about the Slovenian Springs?

Between carbonate rocks, 12 to 15 streams emerge; on the steep slope, they form a cascade of waterfalls. The springs are also an Orthodox shrine.

In which languages are the museum audio guide texts available?

The texts are available in Russian and English. Check in advance whether and how you can currently obtain the audio guide.

Go to the main travel overview: Pskov Oblast.