Vladimir History

Traditionally, the founding date of Vladimir has been acknowledged as 1108, which is the date of the first mention of Vladimir in the Primary Chronicles. Vladimir Monomakh, Prince of Rostov-Suzdal, built a fortress on the high bank of the Klyazma River. He named the settlement after himself, and the city began to rapidly grow as an agriculturally rich region.

In 1158 was constructed the Vladimir's Assumption (Dormition) Cathedral begins under the supervision of Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky on April 8th. The cathedral was built in the center of the St. George convent and served as the sacred burial site for women of the royal family.

In 1169 Vladimir replaces Kiev as the Grand Principality of Russia. In 1194 St. Demetrius Cathedral was constructed over three years upon the request of Grand Prince Vsevolod III. Under Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky and Vsevolod III "Big Nest", Vladimir grew significantly in power and importance, replacing Kiev as the capitol of the Grand Principality of Russia in 1169. Following his death in 1212, the consolidated state divided into several smaller principalities.

By 1238 Vladimir falls under siege of the Mongols, under Batu Khan, who destroyed most of the city and killing most of its inhabitants. Vladimir crumbled once again under the Tartars in 1293. The city recovered each time, though its realm disintegrated into small princedoms with Moscow increasingly dominant.

In 1408 Vasily I sends Andrei Rublyev and Daniil Chorny to create frescoes inside Vladimir's Assumption Cathedral. And in 1783 Vladimir Central Prison is built on the eastern side of Vladimir. In 1958, the 850th anniversary of the city foundation was celebrated, with many monuments from the celebrations adorning the city squares.

In 1992 The American Home is officially established and dedicated in Vladimir. Built in the spring of 1992 and officially dedicated on the Fourth of July, the American Home provides a variety of services, including a popular and highly regarded American English and Culture Program, assistance with educational and cultural exchanges, humanitarian aid, and a variety of commercial and tourist services. Built with American materials by American volunteers, the Home serves as an information center for both Russians and foreigners.