Smolensk is one of the oldest cities in Russia. It is located on the Dnieper River, 378 km south-west of Moscow. It bears the title "Hero City" (awarded on May 6, 1985) for the courage and staunchness of the defenders of Smolensk, mass heroism in the struggle against the German fascist invaders during the Great Patriotic War.
Two of the most important sights in Smolensk that are definitely worth a visit are the fortress wall and the Smolensk Assumption Cathedral. The Smolensk Fortress encircles the center of Smolensk and is the symbol of the city. Its towers and spinners can be viewed from very close to the main square. For a closer look, take a long walk along the Dnieper and along the hills surrounding the city.
The Assumption Cathedral is located on a high hill, it is visible from anywhere in the city. A majestic structure with domes, shimmering in gold, rises above the people ascending the steps leading to the temple. Thousands of candles, a unique iconostasis and a choir singing - this cathedral is always beautiful and solemn, but especially during the service.
Also noteworthy are the numerous churches built in the 11-12 centuries, the historical museum, as well as the museum of the Great Patriotic War. Tourists and museums, which are located directly in the fortress wall ("Museum of Russian Vodka" and "Thunder Museum"), visit with pleasure and interest.
Of interest are also the monuments to the heroes of the Russian-French war of 1812, the Walk of Fame, the Drama Theater, the Russian Antiquity Museum, which has a rich collection of works of art from different eras. Each of the above places can tell a lot about the historical and cultural components of the city, acquaint you with the ancient customs of their ancestors and the life of their contemporaries.
It will be interesting and informative to visit the museum-smithy, the Church of the Holy Spirit in Flenovo, with paintings by Nicholas Roerich; memorial sign at the place of death of Prince Gleb. The most curious tourists visit the excursion to the "Hitler's bunker", which is located in Krasny Bor.
Smolensk is a very beautiful, interesting and "different" city. The very first walk along it will provide you with many positive impressions. Smolensk is revealed gradually, but it is also remembered for a long time.