The foundation of Moscow is shrouded in the mists of time, with its origins dating back over a thousand years. While the exact details are subject to debate among historians, here is a brief history of the foundation of Moscow:
9th-10th Century: The Early Settlements
The earliest recorded history of Moscow begins in the 9th to 10th centuries when Slavic tribes inhabited the region. It was initially a small settlement on the banks of the Moskva River, known as “Moskov” or “Moskva.” This settlement served as a trading post and a defensive point for the Slavic people against various invaders.
1147: The First Mention
Moscow was first mentioned in historical records in 1147 when Yuri Dolgorukiy, the prince of Suzdal, invited his ally Prince Sviatoslav of Novgorod to a meeting at “Moskov.” This event is considered the traditional founding date of Moscow, even though the settlement had existed for centuries prior.
Late 12th Century: Stone Walls and Fortifications
In the late 12th century, under the rule of Prince Yuri Dolgorukiy and his son Andrey Bogolyubsky, Moscow began to grow in importance. Wooden fortifications were replaced with stone walls, and Moscow’s strategic location between the Volga River and the Baltic Sea made it a crucial center for trade and defense.
14th Century: Rise of the Moscow Principality
The 14th century saw the rise of the Moscow Principality under the leadership of Prince Ivan Kalita and his descendants. Moscow’s princes gradually expanded their territories, often through strategic marriages and alliances. By the mid-14th century, Moscow had become the dominant principality in the region.
Late 15th Century: Ivan the Great and Moscow’s Ascendance
Ivan III, also known as Ivan the Great, ruled Moscow from 1462 to 1505. He consolidated power, expanded Moscow’s territory, and effectively ended the Mongol domination by refusing to pay tribute. Ivan also initiated a period of cultural and architectural growth, including the construction of the Kremlin, which became the heart of Moscow.
16th Century: The Tsardom of Russia
In 1547, Ivan IV, also known as Ivan the Terrible, was crowned as the first Tsar of Russia. Moscow became the capital of the newly formed Russian Tsardom, solidifying its position as the political and cultural center of the country.
From the 17th century onwards, Moscow continued to play a central role in Russian history, witnessing periods of prosperity, conflict, and transformation. It became the capital of the Russian Empire in 1712, under Peter the Great’s reign.
Today, Moscow is not only the capital of Russia but also one of the world’s major cities, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. Its foundation, rooted in ancient Slavic settlements and princely rule, has shaped the course of Russian history for centuries.
EAST AND WEST 