chrysler grand voyager immobiliser problems

What is the immobilizer or anti-theft system on a Grand Voyager?

In a few words: The immobilizer or anti-theft system verifies that the key used to turn the engine on is the correct one. If the key is not the correct one, this system blocks different actions to prevent the car from starting.

When this system is activated on your Grand Voyager a warning light such as the one below will turn on:

What happens when the immobilizer is activated on a Grand Voyager?

If the car does not recognize the signal of the key, two things may happen:

• The engine may turn on for a few seconds and then it will stop.
• The engine will not turn on.

The car's computer will disable the fuel pump, the ignition coil and/or the injectors, depending on the electronic immobilizer system. Moreover, if the car has a diesel engine, this system will also block the “stop” relay, which will prevent the fuel from being injected into the engine. Sometimes, this system will also block the steering column which will lock the steering wheel.

Why is the immobilizer activated on a Grand Voyager?

The main reason is because the car's computer does not recognize or does not detect the signal sent by the chip which is inside the key. The most common reasons as to why this happens are: ⚠️ Low battery of the key or the remote control: the chip will not send the signal. ⚠️ The chip of the key is damaged or has been decoded : it may happen if the key is damaged or if it gets wet. ⚠️ Faulty electrical wiring: it may happen both in the antenna as well as in the immobilizer unit or the engine's computer.

Less frequent causes:

• Damaged antenna : due to electrical reasons, the antenna may stop working.
• Lack of synchronization of the immobilizer unit.
• Electronic failure : any of the contacts or internal electronic components of the module or the computer may get damaged.

How can I fix an immobilizer problem on a Grand Voyager?

Since this system is delicate, it is advisable to leave this process in the hands of a specialist.

First, the technician will scan the car with the adequate diagnosis equipment to check if the problem is actually related to the immobilizer system.

If that is the case, the technician will have to identify the cause among the causes already mentioned and then see if this problem can be solved via programming or if it is necessary to replace any of the components.

How does the immobilizer or anti-theft system or your Grand Voyager work?

Each original key has a chip inside which sends a signal when it gets close to the ignition switch. Inside the switch there is an antenna which receives this signal and sends it to the car's computer. If the signal is the same as the one the car has saved, then the driver will be allowed to start the car.

The immobilizer is automatic and manual activation is never needed. Remember that you can check if your car has this system or not in your owner's manual .

Related guides

Chrysler grand voyager problems: what is the immobilizer.

Did you find the website helpful?

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• The Minivan Mopar Garage
• Vehicle Electrical Components

grand voyager 1997 immobilizer problem

• Add to quote

hi can any one please help my immobilizer will not open the car and it wont start have just got twins and need it working all help would be great .  

When you immobilizer are referring to a security system? Allen  

hi yes the factory one thats fitted it just wont open the doors or let me start it all the dash lights come on but the alarm light flashes and thats all it does.  

My van did the same thing. The locks are control by the BCM and it needs to be reflashed. You can pull the IOD fuse and wait a few minutes then reinstall it and it will reset, but may only last for a few days. On my van it was found that the power lock switches in the doors were heating up and shorting the BCM. This was 3 days ago and after 4 attempts to fix the problem. So far it is still working. Since you van is obviously out of warranty I would start by pulling the fuse and see if it resets. Some have had this work for months or weeks. Allen  

One more comment. Only my locks didn't work. My van started just fine. The other things to check are the battery connections on the van and replace the batteries in the keypads too. Worst case is your BCM is bad and you will have to replace that. Expensive. Allen  

thanks i will try the fuse and see what hapens  

• ?            
• 584.4K posts
• 86K members

Top Contributors this Month

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• Minivans, Vans, and Crossovers
• Minivans · Pacifica

Ignition switch/immobiliser - 2001 Grand Voyager

• Add to quote

Hi guys I have a "new" problem with my 2001 Grand Voyager and hope that someone here may be able to shed some light on it. I live in the United Arab Emirates (a town called Al Ain in the middle of the desert) and my GV has been running nicey in the 3 months since I bought it but now that we're just heading into the hottest part of the year with average daytime temperatures of 42-45C+ (105-110F) and my GV has just shown me a new fault - the ignition swtch/immobiliser. When cool (or as cool as it gets) everything is normal but on friday after a whole day driving around Abu Dhabi (a 100 mile trip plus about the same distance again in and around the city in 100F+ temps and high humidity), I shut the engine down for a few minutes and then could not get the key to turn in the ignition. The remote locks and unlocked OK and so did the key. Suspecting an immobiliser problem, I checked all the fuses, reseated all the relays I could find and still no joy. Repeated attempts to turn the key failed. I pulled the cowl off the steering column to see if I could see any loose wiring but to be honest I didn't know what to look for (but saw the immobiliser box under the column and its aerial around the key switch) . I should add that I tried two known good keys (I carry a spare in the car) and still no luck so I guess that ruled out a faulty transponder key. Resigned to calling out a recovery company to get us the 100 miles home, I gave it one last attempt and the key turned, starting the car instantly. Having a full tank of fuel, we drove home without stopping and without incident. On arriving home, I shut off and attempted a restart - no joy, the key was jammed once more. Given that it was now 2am I locked it and went to bed. No warning lights were displayed at any time other than the usual red light to indicate locked/alarmed. Coolant temperatures were perfectly normal, HVAC worked as advertised and so on although it does get VERY hot in the engine bay (understandable given the conditions here). The battery is nearly new (I know that weird stuff happens to these vehicles with weak batteries). Next day the car started perfectly and repeated shutdown/restart attempts were normal. The same today. I've just interrogated the P codes and got P1684: battery disconnect (it was recently replaced but you always get that anyway) and P1193: intake air temp circuit high (high resistance or high temp?). My thoughts: 1) Does the ignition switch has some sort of solenoid system which locks it until it reads the transponder key correctly? If so, could I be looking at an intermittent, heat related, electro-mechanical failure of the solenoid which is physically preventing the key from turning? If that is the case, is the solenoid replacable or can it be bypassed? Security is not an issue here as car crime levels are very low and the chances of my car getting stolen are as close to zero as to be irrelevant (who'd steal a 13 year old Voyager anyway?) 2) Could it be a heat related failure of whichever relay/fuse operates the above mentioned solenoid (if it exits)? If so, which one? 3) Could the "intake air circuit high" code have any relevance? I would have though that this would have just given a no-crank or no-start scenario. A long post, I know, but I wanted to give as much info as possible. All help will be very gratefully received as I am still finding my way around this beast and the even more challenging service manual!  

Did you try wiggling the shift selector and turning the key?  

I don't believe that this is an electrical issue. The immobiliser will still allow you to turn the key in the cylinder and the engine may crank, but there will be a fuel shut-off. It sounds instead like there is a mechanical binding issue going on in the ign key cylinder/shifter/steering interlock that is preventing you from turning the key? Does this vehicle have the BTSI (brake/transmission shifter interlock) system where you have to depress the brake pedal in order to get it out of Park? If so, do you hear a light 'click' of the interlock solenoid in the column as you depress the pedal? This may cause the key cylinder linkage to bind. If you play with the steering wheel, shifter or brake pedal, see if the key then turns freely. 2007-01-20_190127_brake_switch.jpg Are both key teeth in good shape and not bent or worn? Sometimes a shot of lube followed by a blast of air into the key cylinder will help. If it is heat related, I believe that it would be something mechanical in the column. Find shade or leave the windows down a little? I don't know the possibility of finding a used steering column if you needed one. The P1193 wouldn't be related to the key issue. The IAT sensor should be a 2-wire connector located in the rubber air hose from the air cleaner box to the throttle body intake above the belt area. Make sure it is plugged in and not damaged. If the ign happened to be on while this connector was unplugged, it could set this code. 2008-02-16_202921_2008-02-16_202515.png  

A bit of research on another minivan forum suggest that this may be a simple ignition switch mechanical problem (a common fault, it seems). Perhaps jamming due to heat transfer up the column from the engine bay. The brake pedal does not have to be pressed to start the car, but does to shift out of P. However, it's the "start the car" part that gives problems. Wiggling the gear selector and/or wheel didn't seem to make any difference. Removing the lock cylinder appears to be a simple trick so I'll try that now and clean it up. A cylinder rebuild kit from Rockauto is only $28 + shipping so that looks like the next step. Thanks for the input.  

Before going to the trouble of replacing the lock cylinder, why not try some powdered graphite to lubricate it? It's a cheap and easy thing to do.  

Gently rock the steering wheel left and right while turning the key.  

tazdevil said: Gently rock the steering wheel left and right while turning the key. Click to expand...

chuzz said: Before going to the trouble of replacing the lock cylinder, why not try some powdered graphite to lubricate it? It's a cheap and easy thing to do. Click to expand...

Keep us posted. I replaced the lock cylinder in my 99 GC and it was kind of a pain in the rear! I used the supplied metal tabs that came with it so I could keep my original key.  

Several days on and all is well so far.  

• ?            
• 779.6K posts
• 52.6K members

Top Contributors this Month

Chrysler Voyager (1997 - 2001) - 99 2.4 Car won't start - Immobiliser problem??

Our honest used car pricing is a little bit different to all the others. You can get to our values through make or model - you don’t have to follow a prescribed route. Plus, it’s live, which means we can react to changes in the market quicker than any printed price guide.

From which small car to buy at which price point to the best UK-built cars, our Top 10s have the lot. Click now for your shortlist.

Chrysler Breakers

5 of the most common issues with the Chrysler Grand Voyager

The Chrysler Voyager, since rebranded as the Grand Voyager, is one of those vehicles that’s always been highly characteristic of the Chrysler range. It’s a highly practical vehicle popular with drivers across the world, and it’s been a firm favourite in many European countries ever since it was first introduced to the continent in 1988. One of its biggest appeals for drivers has always been its considerable carrying capacity, with room for several passengers and an ample boot at the rear.

As with any model of car with over 30 years of history behind it, some Chrysler models have been known to develop distinctive issues. As specialist Chrysler breakers here at ACD of Lancashire, we’re pretty well versed in some of those issues ourselves, so we thought we’d give you a heads-up on some of them.

Brakes servo

Understandably, most issues involving the word ‘brakes’ tend to be particularly concerning issues, but we should say right out of the gate that thankfully that’s not necessarily the case here. If you find that there’s a hissing noise with your brakes, but their effectiveness doesn’t appear to be compromised, then that’s probably an issue with your Chrysler Voyager’s brake servo. You’ll simply need a new brake servo to get rid of the noise.

(Obviously if you think that your brakes are compromised though, that’s a different issue entirely – so as with anything to do with your brakes, don’t wait around to get it sorted!)

If you spot a leak pooling on the outside of your Voyager after it’s been left sitting a while, then it’s most likely the result of failed power steering cooler hoses. It’s known to be a particularly common issue for Grand Voyagers manufactured between 2001 and 2008. Thankfully the fix is straightforward – you’ll just need a replacement hose.

Speedometer and gearbox issues

These are, for obvious reasons, some of the more serious issues that can affect some Chrysler Grand Voyagers. The speedometer can sometimes be prone to failure, which comes down to faulty gearbox input and output sensors. For the same reason, some unlucky drivers of certain Chrysler Voyagers might find that their vehicles won’t go over 30mph.

It the Chrysler in question is a diesel with an automatic transmission, then at high speeds you might find that the automatic gearbox baulks, and fails to engage. That can be quite a scary problem, and unfortunately not a cheap one to fix. It’s a transmission issue and therefore often needs a new gearbox – a repair which can sometimes run into the thousands of pounds.

Electric door issues

There’s a common issue with the Chrysler minivan’s sliding door, but thankfully it’s pretty easy to diagnose. If you find that the door works with the manual controls, but not the switch, then your natural conclusion will be that the switch itself has failed. This is caused by a fault in the wiring, so a rewiring should be enough to fix the issue.

Suspension bushes

This is a common problem that you’re especially likely to encounter if you live, work, or regularly travel in and out of rural locations, as rough roads mean that the suspension bushes can be one of the first parts to fail in the car. There’s an easy way to test it – just give it a quick push down on the bonnet, and watch to see if it returns to its original position in a single bounce. This is another one that’s not one of the cheapest fixes – often coming in at around a three figure sum – so you may find that it really depends on your opinion of the ride quality!

And of course if you need help with any of these replacement parts, that’s exactly what we’re here for at ACD of Lancashire. As specialist Chrysler breakers , we have unrivalled knowledge of these vehicles, and provide a comprehensive range of parts to enable you to make the necessary repairs. If you’re having trouble finding something you need, don’t hesitate to let us know on 01254 301021, and we’ll be happy to see how we can help.

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)

Chrysler Grand Voyager 3.3 2006 Eu

Val @rosarioagro

Posted: Mar 4, 2017

• Unsubscribe

Temporary failure of the electronics

Sorry my bad English. I'll try to explain a bug. I have a Grand Voyager 2006 3.3 limited (European). When the engine is idle sometimes a part of electronic stops working suddenly. Instrument panel (odometer is still on!), fog lights, electric slide doors and tailgate, Central lock and something else (can't remember) but the same ones and all together. By the way the remote control of the "non-native" alarm continues to turn the central lock on and off! When the bug occurs I may start start the engine and the car goes without any other problems. This problem will not occur if I start the engine before. But if this happens I need to remove the terminal from the battery or pull out the fuse "IDO" for a few seconds or just close all doors manually (if open) and wait typically until the odometer is lit off and then everything restores itself. Problem occurs in any weather and its occurrence is unpredictable. Replacement of the BCM and FCM did not help. I need Your help! Thank you very much!

Is this a good question?

Jimfixer @jimfixer

Rep: 102.7k

Remove the ecm connected to the side of the fuse panel in the engine compartment . Check for corossion on the pins use a spray electrical cleaner to clean the socket and the pins then before reassembling put dielectric gel on the contacts and pins to keep the corrosion from returning. Hope this helps

Was this answer helpful?

2 Comments:

Thank you but what`s the Engine Control Module (ECM) got to do with this problem? The bug has no affect on the engine work. Maybe you ment an FCM which is situated right on the front of the fuse block? If yes I`ve already replaced it by the newer one. Didn`t help...

Mar 5, 2017 by Val

@rosarioagro please excuse the confusion i refer to all three as ECMs (electronic control modules) and then state there locations . I guess it just depends were your from as to what you refer to it as . but the point I was trying to make was that the connector could be full of corrosion even if you replaced the module the connection can still be bad because of corrosion in the receiving end of the connector . clean the connector with a spray electrical cleaner and replace with the dielectric gel

Mar 5, 2017 by Jimfixer

Add your answer

Past 24 Hours: 1

Past 7 Days: 3

Past 30 Days: 11

All Time: 740

• Sell my car
• My Shortlist

Sign up / Sign in

• New to Carsguide? Sign up
• Welcome back! Sign in
• Edit Profile
• Find a Dealer
• What car should I buy?
• Instant Cash Offer

Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Family focused reviews and advice for everything family car related.

Off-road for beginners and the experienced, plus camper trailers, caravans and motorhomes

Utes, commercial vehicles and tow tests

We make it easy to compare design, practicality, value and more

Buying used? Here's what to look out for and buy smart

Your thoughts could drive you to more than just your next destination 🚗💬

Buying guides

Our experts pick the top models

• People mover
• Convertible

What's happening in the automotive world

Get to know the personalities behind the team every week

The stars of the latest big events

The most interesting hints of what's to come

What's been recalled and why. Are you affected?

The latest and future car tech from around the world

We're here to help you with any car issues

Looking for tips on how to carry or travel with your family?

How To, off-road tips and adventure travel destinations

Not just utes. Detailed advice for you - the tradie - on what car is right for you and your job

Looking for an answer? Our automotive experts are here to help

If you're wondering, we've probably got the answer

Unsure of your car's maximum towing capacity? We've listed all relevant models here.

Wondering how much air to put in your tyres? Our database has the answer

Everything you need to know to keep you and your family as safe as possible

Helpful advice before you finance your next car

Tips for getting the right insurance and how to make a claim

Everything you need to know when sizing up your new car

• pricing + specs

adventure guide

• Trips and Trails
• Camper-trailer Reviews

family guide

• Family Advice
• 7 Seat SUVs

tradie guide

urban guide

• Armstrong Siddeley
• Asia Motors
• Aston Martin
• Austin Healey
• Automobili Pininfarina
• Corsa Specialized Vehicles
• EV Automotive
• International
• Lamborghini
• Mercedes-Benz
• Mitsubishi Fuso
• Pininfarina
• Rolls-Royce
• Vanden Plas

Chrysler Grand Voyager Problems

Are you having problems with your Chrysler Grand Voyager? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Chrysler Grand Voyager issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Chrysler Grand Voyager in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Chrysler products suffer from a reputation for having hit-or-miss reliability, being that some cars are fault-free gems while others are nightmares of continual issues. Dodge vehicles are no longer sold new in Australia, so I'd suggest looking to options from Kia or Toyota, as well as the Chrysler Grand Voyager if you're desperate for an American van.

• Remember me Not recommended on shared computers

Forgot your password?

• Voyager 4th Generation (2001-2007)

Immobiliser

• chrysler voyager 2004

Asked by Demodocus , February 1, 2016

• Answer this question
• Ask a question

Can anyone help with starter problems on my 2004 Chrysler Voyager, Auto, Petrol 3.3cc. The car will not start although the engine cranks. Called out the RAC who think it's the immobiliser although they did not find any fault codes. Tried to reset the ignition key using the instructions from the workshop manual to no avail.

Any advice would be much appreciated 

Link to comment

Share on other sites, 8 answers to this question.

• Sort by votes
• Sort by date

Recommended Posts

My mate lives just north north of London on the Cambridge corridor, I live in the Boro, you are welcome to (2) a free read and code clears where they exist. Most code readers won't read Chrysler you need at least a good scanner. There's no such thing as a good scanner costing less than a £housand or £500 on a 'grey'. Long shot is - reset the computers by pulling the POS terminal for 16 minutes. Best of luck. [Caveat Emptor on any 2004 radio code issue]

darkchild101

QinteQ where exactly are you mate? I am planning a night out in Newcastle in next 2- 3 months and might take you up on your offer sir

Oh no not the Voodoo car from hell. If I had 20 scanners and 20 time served master mechanics each with 50 years experience available for a month we would never get info from that car. I'd stand more chance with a Whiccan doll, a bucket of sharp pins, some eye of newt, a devils mark and two spare agents of the devil and some Voodoo stones. Yes I'll meet you somewhere on the 19 or the [GNR] 1. The Quayside is about 50 miles north of me mate. 

QinteQ there is a fella near me who has a  ICarsoft 980. Any idea if this would do a decent job reading the codes? He has offered to it free but i dont want waste his time if it wont work

have heard if you park near telegraph pole or lamp post that that can cause immobiliser fault

it happenened to a owner on mk 1 t reg grand voyager they pushed it away from telegraph pole 

hey presto it started 

No its a toy., and a cheap one at that. Some cars are easy others near on impossible without 1/2 decent kit. My advice is if its free give it a shot, you never ever know, you might get lucky.The thing is there are x4 types of codes x2 of them can be read by anything one set can even be read and printed out in your dashboard by your IGN key. So some are are quite successful even in cheap readers but most of your problems are related to manufacturer codes and that needs a diagnostic scanner that will work to manufacturers protocols. Even a low level problem like your doors has a heck of a lot of levels and components and manufacturers programming input for example a Haynes manual covers every part of a whole car in 100 pages your doors alone are 200 pages in the Chrysler workshop manual.

Thanks for your advice i appreciate the offer. Although neither the RAC or the garage could sort out the problem by some miracle 3 days later the car just started on its own so I'm watching what happens next with some trepidation!!!

HiYa Demodocus - Quickie on codes and why !

Powertrain ("P") codes  [engine, transmission and emissions systems]

Body ("B") codes  [Climate control system, lighting, airbags, etc.]

Chassis ("C") codes  [antilock brake system, electronic suspension and steering systems]

Network Communications ("U") codes  [controller area network wiring bus and modules are sub divided into 2 groups below

-  Generic  or  Global  codes, which have a "0" as their second digit to indicate they are common to all makes and models of vehicles. These are the codes that are required for basic emissions fault diagnosis.

-  Enhanced  or  Manufacturer Specific  codes, which have a "1" as their second digit to indicate they are unique to a particular vehicle make or model. These special codes were deemed necessary by the vehicle manufacturers so they could provide additional diagnostic information beyond the basic list of generic OBD II codes for all kinds of faults, not just emissions-related faults.

I said earlier that  there are x4 types of codes x2 of them can be read by anything one set can even be read and printed out in your dashboard by your IGN key [Key dance is - on off on off on off on within 5 seconds].  The other two are almost impossible to even scan let alone interpret  with cheap scanners, it shouldn't surprise people that main stealers don't even want qualified engineers in proper garage set-ups to be able read them let alone DIY'ers. The RAC are normally good and have good pro- scanners available. Poor battery performance is often the cause of codes being reported, particularly recurring codes related to poor starting.

Cont 10th Feb 2016 - eyes getting glazed - they soon will be ...............

Most of the P's B's and C codes are 0's some however are 1's and hidden in the manufacturers section which is why even some good diagnostic scanners can't see them and all non-diagnostic scanners have no chance of ever seeing them, and then it gets even more complicated because many settings are enhanced but are also designated as 'user settings'. in a different section, some of these can be found in the EVIC, others can not. These 'user settings' cover things like :

- Customer Key Programming

- Automatic Door Lock enable / disable

- Remote Unlock Driver's Door 1st

- Sound Horn On Lock - banned in the UK

- Turn Off Flash Lights On Lock/Unlock

- Sliding Door Open Flash enable / disable

- Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Use Reminder System

- A/C Recirculation Programming

This is why well intentioned people go to a garage and are repeatedly told no mate - no codes showing like I said last time. The codes are there they're just not able to be seen. I've used many full spec & 'indi' scanners ranging from £1k to £4k and even these perform differently, the only ones that do consistently well are the makers own and a sub to the TechAuthority and of course even money alone can't easily buy one of these. Best of luck.

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

×   Pasted as rich text.    Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.    Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.    Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

• Submit Reply
• Existing user? Sign In
• Online Users
• Leaderboard
• All Activity
• Create New...

Take a walk through the most ancient Kremlin in Russia

The Novgorod Kremlin, which is also called ‘Detinets’, is located on the left bank of the Volkhov River. The first fortified settlement was set here during the reign of prince Vladimir Yaroslavich, the son of Yaroslav the Wise. During these times, all the state, public and religious life of Novgorod was concentrated here. It was the place where people kept chronicles and copied the texts of books. The Novgorod Kremlin, the most ancient one in Russia, was founded here in the 15th century.

St. Sophia Cathedral (11th century), The Millennium Of Russia Monument, Episcopal Chamber (15th century) and the main exhibition of The State Novgorod Museum-reservation located in a public office building of the 18th century are all situated in the Novgorod Kremlin. The exhibition will tell you about the whole Novgorod history from ancient times to the present day. There are also restoration workshops, a children’s center, a library and a philharmonic inside the Kremlin walls.

Send a letter with the State Novgorod Museum-reservation stamp

While visiting the main building of the Novgorod Kremlin museum, you’ll see a small bureau near the souvenir area. Two more bureaus like that can be found in the Fine Arts Museum and the Museum information centre. This is the Museum Post, the joint project of the State Novgorod Museum-reservation and Russian Post.

The tradition to exchange letters (at that time written on birch bark sheets) dates back to the 11th century so it’s hardly surprising that such a project appeared here. The bureaus are desks and mailboxes at the same time, so you can send your friends a postcard with a view of Novgorod right from the museum.

Find the famous Russian poet Alexander Pushkin among the figures of The Millennium Of Russia Monument

In 1862, 1000 years after the Varangians were called to Russia, a monument dedicated to this event was launched in Novgorod. To tell the story of Russia’s one thousand years, the sculptor used 129 bronze figures: from state and military leaders to artists and poets.

One of figures portrays Afanasy Ordin-Nashchokin, a politician and reformer who was responsible for Russia’s diplomatic relations in the middle of the 17th century. He is believed to be the father of international and regular mail in Russia. He was also the person who came up with the idea of the first Russian Post official emblem — a post horn and a double-headed eagle.

Cross the Msta River over the first arch bridge in Russia

The steel bridge in Borovichi town that connects two banks of the Msta river was built at the beginning of the 20th century. The project of the bridge was created by Nikolay Belelyubsky, engineer and professor of St. Petersburg State Transport University. This is the first arch bridge in Russia.

In 1995, it was included in the national cultural heritage register. More than 100 bridges across Russia were developed by Belelyubsky, but only this one is named after him.

Cast a virtual bell

When in the Novgorod region, you’ll definitely hear bells ring and learn about the Novgorod Veche Bell. During the siege of the city, tsar Ivan III ordered to remove this bell from the bell tower and send it to Moscow. Legend says that the bell didn’t accept his fate, fell to the ground near the border of the Novgorod region and broke to pieces against the stones.

In the biggest Museum Bell Centre in Russia located in the Valday town, you can see bells from across the world and learn why Novgorod bells are unique. The museum’s collection represents bells from different countries and ages, some of them dating back to the 3rd century BC. You’ll learn about the history of casting and modern bell-making technologies and also play games on a touch table. For example, harness virtual ‘troika’ (three) horses with bells or cast a virtual bell.

Spot the pigeon on the cross of St. Sophia Cathedral

St. Sophia Cathedral was built in Novrogod between 1045 and 1050 by Kievan and Byzantine masters. It was conceived as the main cathedral of the city, and during its first years it was the only stone building in Novgorod. So where does the pigeon on the cross of the cathedral’s biggest dome come from?

Legend says that while tsar Ivan the Terrible and his Oprichniki were cruelly killing peaceful city folk in 1570, a pigeon suddenly sat down to the cross of the city’s main cathedral. It looked down, saw the massacre, and was literally petrified with horror. Since then the pigeon has been considered the defender of the city. People believe that as soon as the pigeon flies away from the cross, Novgorod will come to an end.

Visit a monastery, that was founded by Patriarch Nikon

The Valday Iver Monastery is situated on the island in the middle of the Valday lake. It is considered to be one of the most important and picturesque orthodox shrines.

The monastery was founded in 1653 by the initiative of Nikon who had just been elected Patriarch. Nikon wanted the monastery to look like the Iviron Monastery on Mount Athos, including the architectural style and monk’s clothes. Legend says that Nikon saw the spot for the monastery in a dream.

Check out Fyodor Dostoevsky’s country house

Fyodor Dostoevsky, a famous Russian writer, first visited Staraya Russa town in 1872 during a summer trip with his family. They liked it so much that the next year they rented a house near the Pererytitsa River’s embankment and spent every summer here ever since.

Dostoevsky loved this house, called it ‘his nest’ and considered it the perfect place to work and to be alone. In Staraya Russa he wrote his novels ‘The Adolescent’, ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ and ‘Demons’. Today, this place is a museum where you can explore what Dostoevsky’s house looked like and see his family’s personal belongings, photos and letters.

Visit an authentic Russian ‘izba’ (wooden house)

If you want to really enjoy the atmosphere of the old Novgorod, you should come to the Vitoslavlitsy Museum of folk wooden architecture that is located on the Myachino lake not far away from Veliky Novgorod. In this open-air museum you’ll see the best examples of Russian wooden architecture, including authentic old ‘izbas’ (wooden houses), rural chapels and churches.

During the year, the museum hosts fairs of crafts and folklore, christmastides, and even an international bell ringing festival.

Learn what Brick Gothic looks like

The Episcopal Chamber of the Novgorod Kremlin is the only non-religious German Gothic building of the 15th century preserved in Russia. You can have a good look at the facets of the gothic cross-domed vaults inside the chamber. This is why this building is also called ‘Faceted Chamber’ or ‘Chamber of Facets’.

The chamber was part of Vladychny Dvor, the place where all important city events took place: court hearings, gatherings of the Council of Lords of the Novgorod Republic, ambassador’s receptions and feasts. The seals of the city’s lords were kept here. The decree of tsar Ivan III on merging the Novgorod Republic with the Moscow State was first announced in 1478 in Episcopal Chamber. This is when the name of the new state, Russia, was first pronounced.

See the murals by Theophanes the Greek

The Byzantine Empire had a huge impact on the development of the Russian culture. Many works of art and architecture in ancient Russia were created by Byzantine artists and masters. Theophanes the Greek was one of them. He was born in Byzantine and created icons and murals in Constantinople and Caffa (modern Feodosia). After that he moved to Novgorod where he was commissioned to paint the walls of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior on Ilyina Street. You can enjoy his unique and expressive style if you look at the murals inside the dome of the church and the Trinity side chapel.

The most recognizable and the only monumental work of Theophanes the Greek that is preserved today is the chest-high portrait of the Savior the Almighty in the dome of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior.

Take a photo with an ancient Novgorod citizen who is learning how to read and write

In 1951, a letter written on birch bark dating back to the 14–15th centuries was found in Veliky Novgorod. Many decades later, in 2019, a sculpture designed by Novgorod artist and sculptor Sergey Gaev appeared on this exact site.

The sculpture portrays an 8–year old boy sitting on a stool and holding a piece of birch bark. At this age children in Novgorod started to learn how to read and write. During archaeological excavations in Novgorod, scientists often found ancient handwriting practice books and children’s drawings on birch bark sheets.

Feel like an ancient viking or prince Rurik’s guest

Novgorod is one of the waypoints of the famous trade route from the Varangians to the Greeks. The route passed through the Volkhov river. In the 9–10th centuries there was a fortified settlement of the Viking Age here.

Some scientists believe that Novgorod is named after this area which was called ‘Stary Gorod’ (‘Old City’) at that time. Some historians and archeologists consider this place to be the residence of Prince Rurik who was asked to rule the city in 862. That’s why this ancient settlement is called ‘Rurikovo Gorodische’ (‘Ruruk’s Old City’).

Learn more about the Soviet modernist architecture

On the bank of the Volkhov river near the Novgorod Kremlin, there is an incredible building that looks like a spaceship and contrasts strongly with the ancient buildings of the city.

This is the Fyodor Dostoevsky Theater of Dramatic Art that was built in 1987. It is one of the most striking examples of the Soviet modernist architecture. The theater was built for 10 years according to the project of architect Vladimir Somov.

See what an everyday life of Old Believers looks like

The Krestsy town in the Novgorod region has always been considered to be the center of the Novgorod Old Belief community, and it still is. Before the Soviet revolution there were three Old Believers churches here.

The Lyakova village, which is located not far from the town, used to be inhabited completely by Old Believers. You can learn more about their lifestyle in the local interactive museum. You’ll be introduced to Old Believers’ traditional crafts and ceremonies, drink tea with healing herbs and learn how to chop wood and use an old spinning wheel.

Buy a traditional embroidered tablecloth

A unique embroidery style that is now famous all over the world was born in the Staroye Rakhino village in the Novgorod province. By the middle of the 19th century, it had become a folk craft. Since then, linen tablecloths, towels and clothing items decorated with unusual ornaments have been popular not only among the locals, but also travellers.

In 1929, the first cooperative partnership of embroidery masters was created in Kresttsy. Later it turned into a factory that still operates today. The factory has a museum where embroidery traditions are preserved and new ornaments and technologies are created.

Find yourself in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, Staraya Russa town could be called ‘the salt cellar of Russia’. That’s because salt making was the main trade here up to the 19th century. A few years ago, the old craft was brought back to life, and construction of salt works began. Later, an interactive museum was launched based on the results of archaeological findings.

This museum recreates a typical medieval manor of Staraya Russa of the 12th century with living rooms, a bathhouse, workshops, a livestock pen and traditional peasant household items. In this museum, you can also buy salt which is made in the same way as 1000 years ago.

See the place where Suvorov started his Italian campaign

Alexander Suvorov’s manor in the Konchanskoe village, which has now become the museum of the great commander, was originally the place of his exile. Suvovor openly disagreed with the reform of Russian’s army based on the Prussian model, and Emperor Paul the First didn’t appreciate such behaviour. He first fired Suvorov and then sent him away to his family estate.

However, the exile lasted for only two years. The great commander started the military campaign straight from his house in the Konchanskoe. During this legendary expedition, he crossed the Alps and defeated the French army.

Become a real hiker

If you dream of having a hike in the Novgorod region, but at the same time you are afraid that a tourist’s life may be too hard, you should try the Big Valday trail. This is a five-day 59-kilometer walking route. Its central part goes right through the Valday National Park’s territory.

You won’t have to cope with difficulties and inconveniences of camping life here. The route is marked with signs, and there are camping sites where you can find everything you need for an overnight stay from shelters and places for a fire to toilets. The trail finishes at the Dunayevshchina village where you can take a bus back to Valday. To take the trail, you have to fill out a special form and register on the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation website.

Russian Post has launched a limited series of products dedicated to the cultural heritage of the Novgorod region.

In autumn 2020, Russian Post announced an open contest to create the design for its limited series dedicated to Novgorod region. The project was supported by the Government of the Novgorod region, ‘Russ Novgorodskaya’ (Novgorod Russia) project, the State Novgorod Museum-reservation and Yandex.

Stamps and envelopes are traditionally used to spread information about historic dates and figures and famous landmarks. Now we can also use parcel boxes, packaging tape and postcards. The limited series products will travel around the world, introducing the most popular Russian attractions to six million Russian Post clients daily.

The participants were to create the design for the limited series featuring three iconic attractions of the Novgorod region, the Novgorod Kremlin, the Millennium Of Russia Monument and the Belelyubsky Bridge in Borovichi. Moscow designers and graduates of the Higher School of Economics’ Art and Design School Alena Akmatova and Svetlana Ilyushina won the contest. Their project was chosen via an open vote and by the expert jury.