This day in Russian history and the History of the world.

May 3

May 3, 1113: Vladimir II Monomakh came to the throne and became Velikiy Kniaz (Grand Prince) of Kievan Rus'. Succeeding generations often referred to his reign as the golden age of that city.

Numerous legends are connected with Monomakh's name, including the transfer from Constantinople to Rus of such precious relics as the Theotokos of Vladimir and the Vladimir/Muscovite crown called Monomakh's Cap.

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