Nizhniy Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod, one of the oldest Russian cities, was founded in 1221 by Prince Yuri Vsevolodovich of Vladimir. The city became one of the most important fortresses in the south-east of Russia, its army defended the borders of the state from the raids of the Tatars. By the 16th century Nizhny Novgorod had become a major trading center. The first fair near the city appeared back in the 16th century. It attracted merchants not only from all over Russia, but also from Europe and Asia. Siberian furs, Swedish weapons, Indian pearls and Chinese earthenware were sold here.

In 1896, the XVI All-Russian Industrial and Art Exhibition was held in the city, which became the largest in Russia. The Russian Empire. It was there that the first Russian car was shown, electric trams and funiculars were launched for the first time.