At the source of the Volkhov River, guarding the trade route "From the Varangians to the Greeks", a fortified settlement of the Viking Age is located.
Here was Prince Rurik’s residence, who started the first Russian ruling dynasty. In 862, he was summoned to reign by Novgorodians.
Archeological excavations done near the fortress, its dwellings, and utility structures provide prove that Rurikovo Gorodische dates back to the 9th - 10th cc. It is known as the "Old City", which was established in the age of Christianization, and preceded Novgorod (the late 10th - early 11th cc.). There are ruins of the Cathedral of the Annunciation in the center of Rurikovo Gorodische that was built by the Prince Mstislav the Great in 1103 and then reconstructed in the 14th c. Due to Novgorod major political and economic importance, the fort hosted rulers from the Novgorod area - due to the city's major political and economic importance - until the age of Ivan the Terrible (the Fourth). The Cathedral of the Annunciation and the St. George Monastery provided a scenic getaway for past rulers. Now it gives guests a beautiful view of the past.