Rostov-on-Don: A History of a Historic Russian City
Rostov-on-Don is one of the oldest cities in Russia, with a history stretching back to the 12th century. Located on the banks of the Don River, Rostov-on-Don has been an important trading center since its founding. The city has seen a great deal of change over the centuries, from its role as a major port in the 19th century to its current status as a major industrial hub.
The earliest known settlement in the area of Rostov-on-Don was a small village called Staraya Rostov, founded in the 12th century. The village was located on the banks of the Don River, and quickly grew in size and importance as a trading center. In the 15th century, the village was granted town status by Ivan III, and was renamed Rostov-on-Don.
In the 19th century, Rostov-on-Don became a major port city, as it was located at the intersection of the Don and Donets Rivers. The city was also a major railway hub, which allowed it to become a major industrial center. As a result, the city grew rapidly in population and size. By the end of the 19th century, the population had grown to over 100,000 people.
During the 20th century, Rostov-on-Don experienced a period of great change. In 1918, the city was occupied by the White Army during the Russian Civil War. The city was then occupied by the Red Army in 1920, and it was declared the capital of the Don Soviet Republic in 1921.
In the 1930s, Rostov-on-Don was heavily industrialized, and it was the site of a large number of industrial plants. During World War II, the city was heavily damaged by German bombing, and much of its population was evacuated. After the war, the city was rebuilt and once again became an important industrial center.
Today, Rostov-on-Don is a major industrial and commercial center, and is home to a number of universities and research institutes. The city is also a popular tourist destination, with many historical sites and monuments, as well as a vibrant cultural scene.
Rostov-on-Don is a city with a long and fascinating history. From its founding as a small village in the 12th century to its current status as a major industrial and commercial center, the city has seen a great deal of change over the centuries. Despite its turbulent past, Rostov-on-Don is a vibrant and modern city that is well worth visiting.