The Vladimir Tower
The Vladimir tower was one of the citadel's earliest
gatehouses. The gateway Church of Prince Vladimir was built over
it in 1311, remains of which were unearthed during excavations in
1945. The tower is similar in design to the Saviour tower. Both
have lost their upper tier and both have retained the grooves
where the portcullis was suspended ready to be lowered against
attack. In addition it had a pair of heavy oaken gates the hinges
of which can still be seen today. Like the Saviour tower, the
Vladimir tower has a tall arch on the citadel side, which
appeared after the gateway church was removed. The opposite side
is decorated with a row of triangular recesses and ornamental
brickwork, typical of Novgorodian architecture. The arches of the
windows are made of brick. There is a fresco of St Nicholas in a
niche in the centre of the facade. The tower has now been
restored.