Korela Fortress is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ladoga at the confluence of the Vuoksa River. Since ancient times, these lands were inhabited by the Korel tribe, who were allies of the Novgorod Republic. For several centuries, the Swedes and Russians fought for these lands.
The main route of the trade way "From the Varangians to the Greeks", which was very important for the development of the Russian state, passed through Vyborg. In 1293, the Swedes built a powerful Vyborg castle. They owned it for several centuries until 1710, when it was taken by the troops of Peter I during the Northern War.
A secondary route "from the Varangians to the Greeks" ran along the Vuokse River. The fortress of Korela allowed him to control it. For this fortress, the Russians and the Swedes fought for several centuries. According to the chronicles, the Fortress of Korela withstood more than 40 sieges and constantly changed hands.
During the time of the Novgorod Republic, the Korela fortress was made of wood. It was part of a defense belt that included several fortresses: Korela, Old Ladoga, Sсhlisselburg, and Ivangorod. During the Livonian War in the mid-16th century, these lands were ceded to Sweden. The Russians regained control of the Fortress of Korela, but only for short periods of time. With the beginning of the Time of Troubles in 1605, the fortress of Korela passed into the possession of Sweden for more than 100 years.
During the years of Swedish rule, the fortress was called Kexholm. The Round Gate Tower, which was built in 1585, has been preserved to this day. Then it was called the Lars Torstensson Tower. Nearby is the building of the Old Arsenal, which the Swedes built in 1591. Now it houses a museum.
During the Northern War, the troops of Peter I captured the Fortress of Korela and Vyborg Castle, after which the Russian-Swedish border was pushed far to the west. After that, the Korela Fortress became a prison, as did the Shlisselburg Fortress.
Nowadays, tourists who travel along the coast of Lake Ladoga come to Priozersk. Korela Fortress is the main attraction of the city, however, here you can also see the Lutheran Church and the Courtyard of the Valaam Monastery. You can relax and swim in the Priozersk Recreation Park on the island of Stony.
