Monday 20 June 2016

Smolensk - Drogobuzh


Smolensk Kremlin is the largest fortified city defence in Europe although only about half of the 6kms length now remains. Built by Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century to originally protect Russia from the Polish/Lithuanian Empire and since then countless other invasions including Napoleon and Hitler.

Hurtling down and crawling up steep valleys formed by tributaries to the Dneipr and a distance signpost for Mockba (Moscow) but no towns of any consequence until Drogobuzh in 90 kms. Depressing place on the Dneiper and an abundance of mosquitos.

Stages of Napoleon's march to Moscow are signposted - chasing the Russian retreating army then vice versa. Of 600,000 soldiers less than 30,000 made it home.

Dogged defence of Smolensk had frustrated Hitler's march to Moscow and his expected victory over the Red Army.

Today these heroic efforts of the past are  evident on the road to Moscow. The communities reflect a less upbeat present day.

6 comments:

  1. As long as you make it home, Tom - that's the main thing! I think we'll need a special gathering of the "Friday Committee" for you to brief us on the trip with slides. I've said it before but this is most fascinating - hearing about the history, culture and embellished with beautiful photographs. Ever thought of working for "Rough Guide"??
    Pleased to see Wales top of their group in the footy!!
    Best wishes,
    Doug

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  2. The history helps me remain focused, in particular in these former Soviet countries, absent in aspects of the Antiquities .... as we know it anyway!

    'Roughing it' guide is more like it on the average day. You wouldn't believe how dusty and grimy it is once the gravel/sand tracks appear (Poland onwards).

    Maybe a 'moviemaker' in time?

    Thanks for being in touch
    Tom

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  3. Well done Dad. Don't be telling anyone you are Welsh right now us having beat Russia in the football night before last. You must have seen news of the Russian hooligans in France a couple of weeks back, they look pretty scary!

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    1. The Russians in these parts are not interested in football. There are no bars to socialise in although Moscow will be different x

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  4. Agree with Doug, above, fascinating to hear about the history and see your good photos which give a good flavour for where you are.
    That tower block looks a bit rough!!
    Learned any Russian yet?
    X

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    1. A couple of words of Russian (spasibo is thank you) but getting better at recognising names in the Cyrillic alphabet
      Some tower blocks are falling apart in the smaller communities. New ones continue to be built xx

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