History of the Nizhny Novgorod to Moscow Train Route
It’s fitting to start your Nizhny Novgorod to Moscow train journey from a city dedicated to construction of this particular railway and to the workers whose very sweat, blood and tears made it a reality. It's worth noting that in 2012, on the 150th anniversary of the completion of its cherished Nizhny Novgorod to Moscow line, this city broke ground on the Zheleznodorozhnikov Ploshchad, which, in Russian, means Railway Workers’ Square.
The Beginning
The idea for building a railway linking St Petersburg to Moscow and then on to Nizhny Novgorod was first hatched by Franz Gerstner, a German businessman. Gerstner pitched this idea to Tsar Nicolas I. The tsar, a railroad fan, liked the idea and sent Pavel Petrovich Melnikov, an aspiring Russian engineer to America to study the latest in railroad construction techniques.
The Process
Although the 440-km leg from Nizhny Novgorod to Moscow was considered as early as 1835, due to political reasons its construction wasn't taken seriously until 1857. It took until 1862 to finish the project. Fortunately, service improvements on this line have come a long way. Originally the journey, which only had four passenger trains, took up to 15 hours to complete. Nowadays, with the high-speed Sapsan and Strizh trains, passengers arrive in Moscow in under four hours.
Nizhny Novgorod
Feel free to explore this major Russian city. It proudly showcases some 600 notable attractions. Its storied history begins in the year 1220. Don't miss the Grand Kremlin and Archangel Cathedral, which are crowd pleasers. The Soviets once called this city Gorky during the time of the USSR. Visit the Museum House of Gorky to explore interesting Soviet historical artifacts. Take a stroll down the historic Pokrovka street. For breathtaking views of the Volga, Europe’s longest river, venture down the famous Chkalov Staircase.
Stops Along the Nizhny Novgorod to Moscow Railway
Dzerzhinsk
Dzerzhinsk was once a major hub for the chemical industry during the Soviet era. Unfortunately, it holds the distinction of one of the most polluted cities in the world. The life expectancy for inhabitants is a shocking 42 years for both men and women!
Pavlovsky Posad
Its founding goes back to the 14th century. It’s notable for its cultural sights and architecture. The Pavlovo shawl is the town’s most renowned product and traces its roots here. These shawls made of wool have been manufactured from the factory since 1795. They feature extremely intricate flower patterns. The Church of the Ascension, Pokrovsko-Vasilievsky Monastery and the Bell Tower of Resurrection Cathedral are also visitor favorites.
Vladimir
According to the website vladimir-city.ru, Vladimir-on-the-Klyazma was founded in 990 by Prince Vladimir who converted Kievan-Rus (now Russia) to the Orthodox Christian faith. It's one of the Golden Ring cities of ancient Russia. The town’s history dates back to pre-Mongolian times. In fact, the Golden Gate was built to protect the city-state from Mongol invaders. In fact, one portion of the Gate still stands today. Other popular sights include the Princess Convent, the Assumption Cathedral and the Cathedral of St. Dmitry.