Pereslavl-Zalessky was founded in 1152 by Price Yury Dolgoruky. It was severely damaged by the Mongols in the 13th century, and in 1611-1612 during a Polish invasion.
The Spaso-Preobrazhensky (Transfiguration of the Savior) Cathedral was built from 1152-1157 and is the oldest building in town. Legend states that Duke Alexander Nevsky was born here. There is a statue of him in front of the Cathedral. Currently the Cathedral is closed to the public as it goes through restoration.
Next to the cathedral is the Church of Forty Martyrs and St. Simeon's Church (both 18th century) at the front of the market square. The Church of Metropolitan Peter (built 1585) is at the back of the square. All three of these beautiful churches are in severe need of restoration.