In the Vladimir region, less than two kilometers from Bogolyubov, there is a unique white-stone church, which is an architectural monument. This is the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl, located on a flood meadow, in the place where the Nerl connects with Klyazma. In spring, water covers almost the entire surrounding area, so you can get here only by helicopter or by boat. However, the place for the construction of this temple was not chosen by chance: in those days, it was at the crossroads of trade routes and was a kind of gateway to Vladimir land.
This creation was built in 1165 (according to some sources in 1158) in total
in a few months.
The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl was built in honor of the sacred Russian holiday - the Intercession of the Virgin. This holiday was celebrated by the Vladimir clergy as evidence of the special protection of the Virgin to the Vladimir land. According to legend, which found its reflection in the Life of Andrei Bogolyubsky, a white stone for construction work was brought by Andrei Bogolyubsky from the conquered Bulgarian kingdom. By design, the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is a fairly simple structure, which is a one-domed four-pillar cross-domed church. However, the artistic image added by the builders distinguishes it from other places of worship.
The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is surrounded by mystery. Her very appearance is considered perfect. The perfect combination of man-made and introduced by nature is reflected in the elegance of buildings, as well as in the surrounding nature. The walls of the temple are decorated with story stone carvings. So, for example, on one of the planes you can see the figure of King David with a psalteria (this is the oldest musical instrument). He is surrounded by all kinds of
birds and animals enchanted by divine music. Girl faces are looking at us from the walls of the building. This motif is one of the most valuable in church decor. According to research, it took three and a half years to create this creation.
Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is located on a low hill, which was erected
artificially. This was done in order to protect the building from spring water. During archaeological work, the secret of the hill was discovered. First, the foundation was laid with cobblestone using a mortar. Walls were erected on the foundation, which were covered with clay soil. Thus, the underground part of the structure has a height of 5.30 m.
Church of the Intercession only works in the summer. Then he hospitably opens his doors, including to tourists.
So much time has passed since the Church of the Intercession of the Virgin on the Nerl was built ... Several times they tried to disassemble it, it flooded during the spills, underwent repairs ... However, it still stands and looks silently at the natural changes and the generations passing by, remaining the same as eight centuries ago.