What to see in Tobolsk

Tobolsk is a city of amazing destiny. The former capital of Siberia, a place of exile for the Decembrists and the last Russian emperor, the birthplace of Dmitry Mendeleev, and an open-air architectural masterpiece. Here, history is not hidden behind display cases; it's literally underfoot – in the cobblestone pavement, in the creak of steps, and the ringing of bells.

If you are planning a visit to this city, here is a list of must-see places.

Tobolsk Kremlin

The only stone Kremlin beyond the Urals – the heart of the city and its main landmark. The snow-white ensemble soars on the high Trinity Cape, creating an incredible silhouette.

• Sophia-Assumption Cathedral. The oldest stone building in Siberia (1686). Go inside to see unique frescoes and feel the power of this sacred place.
• Bell Tower. If you have the strength, climb to the observation deck. The view of the Lower Posad and the bends of the Irtysh River from there is breathtaking.

Pryamskoy Vzvoz and Rentereya

To get from the Upper City to the Lower City, you need to walk along Pryamskoy Vzvoz. This is a unique engineering structure: a wooden staircase with 198 steps, laid between giant retaining walls up to 15 meters high. It feels as if you are walking along the bottom of a deep stone canyon. Above the vzvoz hangs the Rentereya (Swedish Chamber) – a monumental building where furs ("soft gold") and the state treasury were once stored.

Prison Castle

The contrasts of Tobolsk are striking: right next to the Kremlin's sanctuaries is one of the most severe prisons of the Russian Empire, which operated until 1989. Now it is the Museum of Siberian Katorga and Exile. You can walk through gloomy corridors, look into solitary cells, see shackles, and learn about the fates of famous prisoners, including Fyodor Dostoevsky and Nikolai Chernyshevsky. The atmosphere here is heavy, but impressive.

Museum of Emperor Nicholas II's Family

Tobolsk became the place of the imperial family's last peaceful life before the tragic end in Yekaterinburg. The Romanovs lived here in exile for 9 months. The museum is located in the Governor's House, where the imperial family actually lived. The exhibition is created with great respect and tact: interiors have been restored, personal belongings and photographs are presented. This place allows one to touch upon the private, human side of the monarchs' lives, devoid of pomp.

Yermak's Garden

On Chukman Cape, not far from the Kremlin, there is a picturesque park. At its center stands an obelisk to the conqueror of Siberia – Ataman Yermak. This is an ideal place for leisurely strolls among ancient trees, especially beautiful at sunset. From the edge of the cape, another magnificent panorama of Podgora (Lower City) opens up.

Abalak Tourist Complex

If you have time, be sure to set aside half a day for a trip to the village of Abalak (20 km from the city).

• Wooden Ostrog. A reconstruction of a Siberian fortress from the time of the conquest of Siberia. Everything here is like a fairy tale: Baba Yaga's hut (which can turn around!), a tavern, voivode chambers, and a real Russian stove.
• Abalak Znamensky Monastery. One of the spiritual centers of the region, known for its miraculous icon and unusual architecture in the "Siberian Baroque" style.

How to get to Tobolsk

Travel logistics to Tobolsk have become incredibly comfortable thanks to the new Remezov Airport. There's no longer a need to fly to Tyumen and spend hours on transfers.

• For residents of the capital, the most convenient option is to buy tickets to Tobolsk on Kupi.com. A couple of transfers – and you're already walking on the cobblestones of the ancient capital.
• Convenient routes are also available for travelers from the Northern Capital. You can find direct tickets Saint Petersburg – Tobolsk (schedule depends on the season) or choose an option with a layover.

Souvenirs: What to bring back?

Tobolsk is famous for its unique craft – bone carving. Products made from mammoth tusk, elk antler, or cannon bone will make an expensive and prestigious gift. And for your soul, buy pine nuts, pine cone jam, or the famous Tobolsk gingerbread.

Tobolsk is a city that you don't just need to see, but to feel. Come and touch the true history of Russia.