According to the latest dendrochonological research, Staraya Ladoga was founded in the middle of the 8th century. In early Middle Ages this settlement played an important political and economic role in the life of the young ancient Russian state and the whole Baltic region. It was a large trade and craft center of the Northern Slavs as well as the first capital of the legendary founder of the national state, Rurik. But gradually it lost its significance and up to date stays a little village.
Excavations in Staraya Ladoga have been carried since 1972.