Vad
The settlement of Vad was founded on the Mordovian lands near a large lake, with «vad» from the Mordovian «vad / ved’» (meaning «water, moisture») denoting the nature of the place. The area’s main attraction is of course Vadskoye Lake, with its karstic caves, a true miracle of nature in the Nizhny Novgorod region. Vad is located just thirty kilometers from the town of Arzamas, and we strongly urge you to combine your trip to see one of the region’s oldest settlements.
A FEW FACTS
Vadok River
The name of the village is also associated with the name of the Vadok River, although the exact origin of this word has never been established. Most probably, the name comes from the Finno-Ugric languages, and more precisely from the Erzya word «ved’», meaning «water».
«On the Vad»
Just as in the case with Bor, the locals do not say «v Vade» or «v Vad»; instead, they say «na Vadu» or «na Vad».
Mordovian Tribes
In ancient times, the area was inhabited by Mordovian tribes, so many of the Mordovian language names of villages and other places have been preserved. The Mordvins lived for a long time near the Vadskoye Lake, with the first written mention of the village of Vad dating back to 1552.
Lake Vadskoye
One of the main natural attractions of the area is Lake Vadskoye, a unique karstic lake fed by powerful springs. Jets of water surge out of sinkholes in the depths of the lake, and in winter the water above these thawed areas never freezes.
From Felt Boots to Nails
If we come to talk about the crafts and industries of the Vad district, then rope spinning, charcoal burning, nail making, and blacksmithing were all widespread here. However, one of the oldest crafts was making felt boots, insoles, and hats. Hemp oil was also produced, wool was spun, and coarse and fine cloths were woven from linen yarn.
WHAT TO DO IN THE CITY
01
Pay a visit to Lake Vadskoye
A real monument to nature, on a par even with Lake Svetloyar! Due to the powerful undercurrents, the water here does not freeze even in winter, and thanks to the karstic caves it is a true wonder of nature. It is said that until recently there were only three such caves in freshwater lakes: here, in Belgium, and in France. Sadly, now there are only two of them left, because here in 2007 the arches of the lake’s cave collapsed. Notwithstanding this loss, it remains a favorite spot for divers and underwater fishing enthusiasts. Swans are also regular visitors here, so you can take the time to admire their beauty.
02
Feast your eyes on the Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary
A church built back in 1812 in an eclectic style, with elements of classicism. Today it stands out with the sky-blue color of its facade and bulbous domes.
03
Explore Neidgart Manor
This surprisingly well-preserved XIX-century manor house is situated in the village of Novy Mir, which used to be somewhat romantically called Otrada («Joy»). The estate of the Russian politician Alexei Neidgart, which had previously belonged to the Delvig noble family, regularly hosted the famous reformer Pyotr Stolypin, who was married to Olga Neidgart. The interiors of the main house were most opulent, boasting mosaics, frescoes, and the «hall of hearts». Today, you can still admire this manor house’s well-preserved wooden carved balcony.
04
Visit the Vad Museum of Local History
The museum's displays contain thousands of exhibits to get you acquainted with the traditions and way of life of the Vad residents. The museum also regularly hosts small yet interesting exhibitions, for example «Old does not mean boring!», an exhibition about ancient objects which help us to understand the lifestyle of our ancestors.
05
Find the source of the Sacred Springs of the 12 Apostles
Legend has it that Seraphim of Sarov also found these sacred springs. Today the complex with its holy springs gushing in a shallow ravine is very popular among pilgrims. Each spring is named after one of the twelve apostles. There is also a plunge pool here, and they say that the water from the springs has therapeutic properties for treating depression and nervous disorders.
06
Visit the Spaso-Zelenogorsky Convent
Convents and monasteries are an integral part of Russian culture. They not only spread the Christian faith here, but also donated part of their income to hospitals, shelters, and schools. The convent was founded here in 1800 on the site of a former monastery that had existed until the end of the XVIII century. Now the church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God has been restored here.
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO SEE
Vadskoye Lake
Vad Village
A karstic lake with many sinkholes and craters, which are especially loved by divers. Also, a great spot for fishing.
The Vad Museum of Local History
Vad Village, 2 Shkolnaya str.
The museum's displays contain thousands of exhibits that can help you familiarize yourself with the traditions and way of life of the Vad residents.
Working hours
Tuesday, Thursday — 08:00-16:00, break 13:00-14:00;
Last Friday of each month - closed for maintenance.
Neidgart’s Manor
Novy Mir village
The manor of the Russian politician Alexei Neidgart, dating back to the turn of the XIX and XX centuries, which had previously belonged to the Delvig noble family. A particular feature of this manor house is its well-preserved carved wooden balcony.
The Sacred Springs of the 12 Apostles
Vad Village
A complex of sacred springs, first mentioned in writing in the XIX century. Each spring named after one of the twelve apostles.
The Spaso-Zelenogorsky Convent
Zelenye Gory Village
The convent was founded here in 1800 on the site of a former monastery that had existed here until the end of the XVIII century.
The Church of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Vad Village
The church, built in 1812 in an eclectic style with elements of classicism, now stands out for its sky-blue facade and onion domes.
