Flooded bell tower of St. Nicholas Cathedral — main symbol of Kalyazin and memorial to towns lost to flooding. Height 74.5 meters. When Uglich Reservoir was built in 1939, the old part of the city went underwater, the cathedral was dismantled, but the bell tower was left as a lighthouse. After 2021 restoration, spire, cross, chiming clock and evening illumination were restored.
Entry free. Only boat ride ~250-1500₽. Flooded bell tower. In winter can walk on ice
Summer — boat rides on warm water. Winter — can walk on ice, fairytale photos. Sunset and evening with illumination — most dramatic shots.
From Moscow, bus from Northern Gates bus station (Khovrino metro), 3 hours, from 530₽. By car via Yaroslavl highway through Sergiev Posad. To bell tower — by boat from city pier or with locals (~250₽). In winter can walk on ice.
Majestic white bell tower standing alone in the water — one of Russia's most photogenic and mysterious sights. Evening illumination. Can land on the island and see the tower up close. Nearby — panorama of flooded city and view of 'Kalyazin Ear' radio telescope.
From water at sunset — tower in golden light. Evening with illumination — mystical reflection in water. Winter — white tower on white ice.
faq.subtitle Kalyazin Bell Tower
The tower was left as a lighthouse for navigation on Uglich Reservoir. Later it became a symbol of memory for flooded towns and villages.
After 2021 restoration, the tower is open for visits. Can land on the island and see it outside and inside.
In winter when reservoir freezes, can walk to the tower on ice. Creates unique photos — white tower in the middle of white ice.
Useful tips for visiting Kalyazin Bell Tower
Access 24/7, free. Boat from pier: short circle ~250₽, medium ~500₽, big tour ~1500₽ (20 min with radio telescope).
From Moscow bus from Northern Gates (Khovrino metro), 3 hours, from 530₽. By car — Yaroslavl highway via Sergiev Posad.
Best photos: sunset — golden light; evening — illumination and reflection; winter — white tower on white ice.
Nearby — RT-64 radio telescope ('Kalyazin Ear'), one of world's largest. Can see from water during big tour.
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