Smolensk "Tverdynia" (excursion along the preserved sections of the Smolensk fortress wall)

I invite you to a fascinating excursion, where you will hear interesting facts about the construction of the Smolensk fortress, learn about the trials that fell to its share. And enjoy its beauty and grandeur, fascinating views of the city!

Traveling along its walls you will get acquainted with the history of the Smolensk fortress from the beginning of construction to the present day, its architectural and engineering features.

You will hear interesting facts about those who built the fortress, the great architect F. Kone and of course about its defenders. Do you know why the construction of a stone fortress began in Smolensk? How was it possible to build such a powerful fortification with a length of 6.5 km with 38 towers in just 6 years? What role did the fortress play in saving Russia? Why did Polish troops besiege the Smolensk fortress for 20 months? Why did Napoleon want to blow up all the towers? Why Boris Godunov compared it with the decoration of the boyarina and called it “a stone necklace of all Russia”? Was it really possible to ride on three horses?

You will learn about the trials that fell to her lot: about legendary battles, heavy sieges, defeats and victories.

I will tell you the ancient legends and secrets that cover the towers of this majestic structure. You will see preserved sections of walls and towers, places of fierce battles.
And also enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the fortress wall, fascinating views of the city.

We will finish our walk on the hill. We will visit the Assumption Cathedral, which is a monument to the heroic defense of Smolensk in 1609-1611.

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