Staraya Ladoga is a town that was founded in 753 and is still in competition with Novgorod for the title of the first capital of Russia. It is a place of archeological discovery and is surrounded by a national park that preserves its 12th-century layout (if you overlook some of the Soviet block housing) with an ancient fortress, six 12th-century churches and beautiful monasteries. To the north the town has ancient burial mounds.
Staraya Ladoga played an important role in uniting the lands of the Northern and Southern Rus.
There's so much to see in this place of ancient history. Each building is witness to centuries of change; from the times of pagan worship to dramatic naval battles and the marital whims of Peter the Great. Now, as the 21st century hits the town, more and more people (including Putin!) want to visit a place where you can touch history and legend.