Sights of Kursk and the Kursk region have long attracted tourists from all over Russia. Kuryans are already mentioned in the "Word on Igor's Regiment". These lands are an integral part of the Russian people, the homeland of many prominent people and an important economic region. The vicissitudes of the centuries-old history of these territories were displayed in outstanding monuments, which are the pride of the region. Interesting facts about the sights of the Kursk region (photo with description) read in this article.
From the history of the region
The regional center - Kursk - is located on the banks of the Tuskan River (where it connects with Kura). Other lands had a significant influence on the history and modern appearance of the city. At one time, Kursk was part of the Chernihiv, Pereyaslavsky and other ancient Russian principalities.
In 1597, a large fortress was built in the city. The military, artisans, merchants and peasants from all over the country began to move here. Since then, Kursk has become an important administrative and commercial center.
The most tragic pages in the history of the region are connected with the Second World War. For more than a year the city was occupied by German troops. But even after liberation, this land became an arena of hostilities. For more than a month, the famous battle on the Kursk Bulge lasted - one of the key battles that ended the radical turning point in the war.
Next, read about what this region is famous for today - the sights of the Kursk region (the Arc de Triomphe, the Root Desert, the House of Officers and much more).
Triumphal Arch
The Victory Memorial in Kursk was erected in honor of the soldiers who fell during the battle on the Kursk Bulge. The main dominant of this complex is the Arc de Triomphe. At a height of 24 m, in its center, is a bronze statue of St. George the Victorious.
The construction of the memorial began in 1995. Thanks to experienced craftsmen, the Arc de Triomphe was built in less than 4 months. In 1999, the construction of the Church of St. George the Victorious began. In addition, the complex now houses a monument to G.K. Zhukov and the Eternal Flame, as well as an alley with samples of military equipment from the Second World War.
Today this place is especially popular with locals. This is a favorite area for walks and relaxation of the smokers.
The reserve "Big Oak"
Speaking about the sights of the Kursk region, it is impossible not to mention the reserve located in the Zheleznogorsk district. Opened in 1975, this complex is a museum of guerrilla fame. On its territory there are 6 graves from the Second World War, where the military and partisans lie, as well as later graves with the remains of victims of the fascist occupation.
Biosphere Reserve named after V.V. Alekhine
The Central Black Earth Reserve is located in the Kursk region. The main wealth of this place is virgin chernozems, which are unparalleled in stocks of useful substances. In addition, the biosphere reserve has a fairly diverse flora and fauna (more than 900 species of plants representing the meadow forest-steppe are represented here). Today, on the territory of the complex in the village. The reserve operates the Museum of Nature.
Kursk Root Desert
This is the most famous monastery in the Kursk region, one of the first in this region. Initially, it was assumed that deserts would play the role of a major spiritual center. In the 17th century the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was erected here, and a century later, the Holy Gate. It acquired its completed desert look only in the 18th century.
Today, there are 4 active churches in the monastery. Of particular interest to tourists is the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin mentioned above.
Maryino
Considering the sights of the Kursk region, it is necessary to highlight the "Maryino". This is an outstanding palace and park ensemble, which is located in the region of Rylsk. In the 19th century the territory belonged to the princes Baryatinsky. The estate of Russian aristocrats is on a par with the famous suburban palaces of the Golitsyn, Volkonsky and Sheremetyevs. Around the palace of the princes was arranged a beautiful park with an area of more than 200 hectares. The palace itself amazes with its elegant interior decoration (samples of antique furniture, beautiful stucco moldings and parquet, marble ornaments, etc.). In addition, collections of the best works of art by Russian and foreign masters are collected here. Today, in the reserve "Maryino", in addition to the palace and park area, there is a sanatorium.
Znamensky Cathedral
This is one of the most famous temples in the Kursk region. According to legend, at the beginning of the 17th century the city was ruined and almost completely destroyed by the Polish-Lithuanian army. We managed to survive only a small fortress, in which there were defenders of Kursk. After that, local residents in her place decided to build a monastery. Its construction began in 1816. This cathedral belongs to the group of cross-domed. Its interior decoration impresses with its beauty. It is decorated with magnificent stucco moldings, paintings with religious subjects. The dome of the Znamensky Cathedral is strewn with fresco paintings.
House of Officers in Kursk
The house of the former Noble Assembly is located in the very center of the historical part of the city. This building was erected in the second half of the 19th century. The construction is an outstanding architectural monument. The building was destroyed several times and was undergoing restoration. Today, only brick facades are left of the original building. At the moment, the Regional Philharmonic Hall is located in the House of Officers.