A Walk Around Serpukhov

8 points4 km0 hours

Serpukhov has kept the atmosphere of an old merchant town, with its churches, monasteries, and 19th-century mansions. Here, an hour's drive from Moscow, you can feel the measured rhythm of provincial life. Come here for a leisurely stroll through the historic center and to get to know provincial Russia without the bustle of the capital.

Route author

Susanin Team

Things to do

📜 Learn the city's history
📸 Take photos

Route points (8)

Dam on the Nara in Serpukhov

Point on route “A Walk Around Serpukhov”

Point 6

Dam on the Nara

⚙️ Industrial site • 🔭 Viewpoint

Historical Background

The dam on the Nara River is one of the most photographed places in Serpukhov. The best view of it is from the observation deck near the Vysotsky Monastery. People often hold photo shoots here or simply come to enjoy nature and the river. Construction of the cement-and-concrete dam began in 1930, but a lack of funds slowed the work. The plan called for completion in two years, but the deadline was cut to one. The dam was needed to provide a full water supply to the town's factories and to maintain the water level, replacing the old, dilapidated weirs. In 2024 a major reconstruction began to improve the structure's reliability and safety. The work includes strengthening the abutments and installing new hydraulic equipment and ice protection. The reconstruction is meant to protect the town from flooding and keep the water level in the Nara stable.