Myshkin

Myshkin is located on the left bank of the Volga River 39 km far from Uglich. Being quiet and cozy, Myshkin will give you an idea of what a typical Russian provincial town is. Being remote from the major tourist centers, the town is closely surrounded by protected pine forests. There are no plants or factories in this green town. With population of 6,000, Myshkin is believed one of the smallest Russian towns.

The town’s name is derived from the Russian word “myshka” (“mouse” – Eng). The legend says that a prince resting on the bank of the Volga river was awakened by a mouse running over his face. His rage subsided when he saw a snake approaching him. The mouse had saved his life. The prince ordered to build a chapel on the site. Years later, a settlement with the funny name grew around the chapel. In 1777, Myshkin gained the status of town and got an emblem with a bear above and local mouse below.

The 19th century was the golden age of Myshkin, which became a significant trading centre in Russia. Among its famous merchants was Pyotr Smirnov who gained world fame as the creator of the “Smirnoff” vodka.

To this day, the town has preserved stone and wooden buildings from the era of prosperity. Strolling along the streets, one can see plenty of beautifully decorated houses with balconies and colonnades. Noteworthy that new houses in Myshkin are being built according to classical traditions of wooden architecture. With its old buildings, charming provincial architecture and the cathedral in the very heart of the center, Myshkin is a very photogenic place. The town offers stunning views over the Volga river. Everything in the town – from local economy to people’s lifestyles – is connected with the great river.

Myshkin is full of unusual places of interest: Valenki (Felt boots) Museum, Flax Museum, Museum of Russian Vodka «Smirnoff», etc. But above all Myshkin is known for its Mouse Museum, the only one of its kind in the world. Actually, the whole of the tiny town forms a peculiar living folk museum.