Smolensk is one of the oldest Russian cities. The first written references to it date back to the 9th century. The hero city attracts tourists primarily with its unique architecture. There are over 20 religious buildings in the territory of Smolensk. Epiphany Cathedral, the Cathedral of the Ascension and the Church of St. Nicholas are some of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
As for other outstanding architectural monuments, the House of Engelhardt and the House of Budnikov should be noted. These buildings are really gorgeous. The locals appreciate their history, so there are almost no abandoned houses in the city. Every historic building is occupied by a cultural facility or a guesthouse. Some historic buildings serve as shops and restaurants today.
Smolensk is also the homeland of outstanding figures of science and culture. The other distinctive feature of the picturesque city is plenty of monuments. In one of the city parks, you can see the monument dedicated to world-famous composer Mikhail Glinka. One of the most interesting and most beautiful monuments is the Monument to Alexander Tvardovsky and Vasily Tyorkin. Smolensk will impress those who want to acquaint with the Russian culture and see unique historical monuments. Active tourists will also like the city. From year to year, the number of unique entertainment centers is rapidly rising here.
The main historic symbol of the city is the Smolensk Fortress. The complex of defensive constructions started to be built in the 16th century. For the years of its existence, the fortress had been damaged during major battles. Some of the constructions were destroyed during the Patriotic War of 1812. Despite multiple bloody battles, 18 towers of the fortress and the 3.5 km wall fragment have survived to this day. The Smolensk Fortress is considered as the historical monument of national significance.
The most beautiful religious construction is the Cathedral of the Assumption. It is located on the top of Cathedral Mount. The church was built in the first half of the 17th century. The first church at its site was built much earlier, in the 12th century. The Cathedral of the Assumption is one of the few religious monuments in the city that was not destroyed in wartime. It impresses with its inimitable exterior. The walls of the big monastery are painted in azure and white. The cathedral houses the important religious artifact, the relics of Mercury Smolenskiy, a city patron.
Another architectural monument is the building of Alexandrov Real School that has been occupying by the art gallery since 2010. This museum houses the works of Aivazovsky, Repin, Benua, Levitan, Rerih, Falk, and other famous Russian and European painters. Temporary exhibitions are organized in some rooms of the historic building.
Another popular culture venue is the History Museum that tells its visitors about the most important events in the city history. The museum presents the collection of themed exhibits. Here, you can also see the interesting collection of archeological artifacts. The collection of armors and weapons gives an image of the Middle Ages. The museum also houses household items of different epochs and pieces of art.
The Blonje Garden has a special historical value. It was founded in the middle of the 19th century. Originally, there was a big square at this site. Today, you can see here age-old trees and the most beautiful fountains in the city. The historical garden is famous for its wonderful sculptures, the viewing of which may turn into an exciting excursion.
Sightseeing in Russia: things to see
We should start from describing the most famous places of interest of the capital. Kremlin is the main symbol of the city and an internationally famous attraction. This is a very important historic and architectural landmark, and every building on its territory is a new page in the history of the country. The Red Square is located in front of the eastern wall of the complex. During several centuries the square was a witness to many important historic events. The Red Square was constructed on the site of numerous wooden houses, which made the threat of fire very real and, therefore, their presence was inacceptable near the royal residence. Nowadays, there are many exhibition halls, museums, parks and churches near the Red Square and the Kremlin complex.
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