Mogilev, the capital of the Mogilev region in Belarus, is a city with a rich and fascinating history. From its beginnings as a small settlement in the 12th century to its current status as a major city in the eastern part of the country, Mogilev has seen many changes over the centuries. Here, we take a look at the history of Mogilev and the events that have shaped it into the city it is today.
The Early History of Mogilev
Mogilev was first mentioned in a chronicle of 1147, when it was mentioned as a small settlement. It is believed that the city was founded by the Dregovichs, a tribe of the Eastern Slavs. The city was located on the banks of the Dnieper River, which was an important trade route at the time.
In the 13th century, Mogilev became part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and in the 14th century it was annexed by the Grand Duchy of Moscow. The city prospered under the rule of the Grand Duchy, and it became an important center of trade and commerce.
The city was also a major religious center, and many churches and monasteries were built during this time. In the 16th century, Mogilev was captured by the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and it remained under their rule until the beginning of the 18th century.
The 19th Century
In the 19th century, Mogilev was at the center of several important events. During the Napoleonic Wars, the city was occupied by the French army in 1812, and was liberated by the Russian forces in 1813. In the 19th century, Mogilev also became a major industrial center, and several factories were built in the city.
The city also saw a great deal of cultural development during this time, and many famous writers and artists lived and worked in Mogilev. The city was also the birthplace of the famous Russian poet Alexander Pushkin.
The 20th Century
In the early 20th century, Mogilev was part of the Russian Empire, and it was occupied by the German army during World War I. After the war, the city became part of the Soviet Union, and it was the site of a major battle during the Russian Civil War.
During the Soviet period, Mogilev was an important industrial and cultural center. The city was also the site of several important events, including the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1939.
In the late 20th century, Mogilev was part of the independent state of Belarus. The city has since become an important economic and cultural center, and it is home to several universities, museums, and other cultural institutions.
Today, Mogilev is a vibrant and modern city, and it is a popular tourist destination. The city is home to many beautiful parks and monuments, and it is a great place to explore the history and culture of Belarus.