BRIEF HISTORY OF
PSKOV
Map
of old Pskov(click here)
Pskov, a regional center in the
North-West Russia, is one of the oldest cities in the Russian state,
whose history is 1100 years old. It was first mentioned in
chronicles in the year of 903. Chronicles and local legends connect
the foundation of Pskov with the name of the Holy Princess Olga, the
first Russian Christian woman and a wise governor of Russia.
During 1100 years of existence Pskov witnessed many significant
events that had vital importance in the history of Russian state and
stood guard on Russian land borders.
Pskov contributed greatly to the history and culture of the Russian
people.
During the ages the Pskovites have created their own special culture
which became an integral part of the Old Russian culture. This is
reflected in the literary works and masterpieces of the Pskovian
school of Old Russian painting. In Pskov and its suburbs over 100
monuments of medieval architecture have remained undamaged.
Among them are the Cathedral of the
Transfiguration of Our Savior built in 1156 and decorated by
world famous murals in the Mirozhsky
monastery, the Trinity Cathedral, the heart of Pskov built in
the 17th century and dozens of churches from 12th
to 19th centuries. Pskov Museum possesses a precious
collection of over 700 icons from the 15th century.
No wonder Pskov is called a city – museum.
There is a natural combination of ancient monuments (fortified walls
with towers of XV-XVI centuries, churches of a peculiar Pskov style,
monasteries and merchants’ chambers) and modern buildings.
Modern Pskov is not only ancient history and original architecture.
It is also marvelous pure nature as the city is surrounded by
numerous forests and lakes.
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