UST-VYM - THE VILLAGE OF SAINT STEPHEN OF PERM

Let’s take a virtual trip to Ust-Vym. At first sight, it is quite a small ancient settlement, but there is a special thrill to it! Only there can you be plunged into Russian history: see antique churches, maintain the spirit of the age, drink some water from the holy spring with miraculous powers, and get a notion about the culture of Komi people.

The settlement was founded in 1380. Stephen of Perm – one of the most important Russian saints – is the missionary accredited with the conversion of the Komi Permyaks to Christianity. Stephen of Perm was the first bishop of Ust-Vym. The pagans tried to struggle for their religion, but when they saw the power of Stephen’s faith, they obeyed implicitly and adopted Christianity. It’s hard to believe, but long ago Ust-Vym was the administrative and religious centre of the north-east region.

Now the settlement is closely connected with Saint Stephen of Perm. There are some places of interest named after him. 

Getting to Ust-Vym:

It is easy, you are to get on a bus in the direction of Aikino, Jeshart or Mikun. Distance: 72 km. One way: 1.5 – 2 hours. A bus departs from the Syktyvkar bus station every 2-3 hours. A ticket costs approx. 200 RUB.

St. Stephen’s Church (1755-1766) and Michailo-Archangelskiy Monastery

It was founded in 1396 and it is one of the most ancient buildings in the Komi Republic.

You can enjoy the majesty and mysteriousness of antique churches and picturesque scenery!

Address: Ust-Vym, Zarucheinaya str., 36.

Opened for visitors every day.

Admission is free.

Tel.: +7(82134) 92-9-85

Historical-Ethnographical Museum

The museum is situated in the building of the former hospital (built in 1902-1904). The exhibition occupies 5 rooms, and it is arranged on the subject-chronological principle. The displays on such topics as “Everyday life of people in Ust-Vym,” “Ust-Vym – the former centre of Christianity” and “Stephen of Perm” are represented.

Address: Ust-Vym, Sovhoznaya str., 31.

Opening hours: Every day: 10.00-18.00

Closed: every month last Friday

Entrance fee: Children – 15 RUB, Adults – 30 RUB

General information by phone: +7(82134) 22-801

The Holy Springs

It is located near the Michailo-Archangelskiy monastery. Water from this spring can be used to cure many diseases.

Cost: free, but you should bring your own bottles.

The museum “Peasant’s house” (1880-s)

There you can see restored in detail the interior of a Komi house with a Russian stove and plank bed. You can imagine a real peasant’s way of life.

All these places of interest are located in the centre of the settlement, and it won't be difficult to find them quickly.