The city of Vladimir, serving its original …

Years: 1164 - 1164

The city of Vladimir, serving its original purpose as a defensive outpost for the Rostov-Suzdal principality, had had little political or military influence throughout the reign of Vladimir Monomakh (1113–1125), or his son Yuri Dolgorukiy ("long arms").

It is only under Dolgoruky's son, Andrey Bogolyubsky ("Andrey the God-Loving"), that it becomes the center of the Vladimir-Suzdal principality.

Andrey had left Vyshhorod in 1155 and moved to Vladimir.

Promoting development of feudal relations, he relies on a team and on Vladimir’s townspeople; he connects Vladimir to the trading and craft industries of Rostov and Suzdal.

After his father’s death in 1157, he has become Knyaz (prince) of Vladimir, Rostov and Suzdal.

Thus begins the city's Golden Age, which will last until the Mongol invasion of Russia in 1237.

During this time Vladimir will enjoy immense growth and prosperity, and Andry will oversee the building of the Golden Gates and the Cathedral of the Assumption.

In 1164, Andrey even attempts to establish a new metropolitanate in Vladimir, separate from that of Kiev, but is rebuffed by the Patriarch of Constantinople.

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