About Vologda

Vologda is one of the most beautiful parts of the country. Apart from the places of worship one can also see the wonderful houses surrounded by carved fences (which is the symbol par excellence of Vologda), whose portals and columns are reflected in the calm waters of the river. Vologda wood is still very much present: entire streets of old-style houses, neighborhoods steeped in elegance with their intricately carved facades. A decor that is perfect for a historic or melanholic film.

Half way between Moscow and St-Petersbourg, Vologda is easily accessible by car and by train. Nicknamed the «Twilights» of Vologda, this train leaves every evening from Yaroslavl station in the centre of Moscow and arrives the next morning in one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Russia. Like Moscow, Vologda was founded in 1147. For centuries, it competed with the Great Capital before finally yielding to it. In addition to Vologda, the historic towns of Belozersk, Veliky Ustug, Ustiujna, Totma, amongst others, are living museums and are part of UNESCO’s world cultural heritage list.

The region is full of natural beauty, is rich in history and is resolutely turned towards the future. Vologda is a cultural center that favors innovation and creativity. Its modern infrastructures enable the development of tourism. Its industrues, which include Severstal, are successful across the world. However, it is above all a region which has decided to become a main player in the field of Russian and world cinema with the creation of the VOICES festival: Vologda Independent Cinema from European Screens Festival.

VOICES is a unique example of an independent young and creative cinema merged with the atmosphere of a traditional Russian city.

After the hustle and bustle of Moscow and St Petersbourg, the slower place of life in Vologda was a welcome change and an opportunity to combine film screenings with getting to know the city and surrounding countryside. Martin Blaney SCREEN