Kerch in 3 Russian words
This is the oldest city in continuous existence in Russia for over 2,500 years. Here are three of its main symbols.
1. РУИНЫ ПАНТИКАПЕЯ (Ruins of Panticapaeum)
In ancient times, Kerch was known as Panticapaeum. The city was founded in the late 7th century BC by people from the Greek city of Miletus. By the early 20th century, neither the buildings nor even the ruins of Panticapaeum remained above ground. Systematic scientific excavations of this great city began in 1945 and continue to this day.
2. СОБОР СВЯТОГО ИОАННА ПРЕДТЕЧИ (Cathedral of St. John the Baptist)
This is one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Russia. It was built no later than the 9th century on the remains of an earlier church, the construction of which, according to legend, was blessed by Apostle Andrew the First-Called himself. The cathedral was built in the Byzantine style, while the 19th-century additions were built in the Neo-Byzantine style.
3. КРЕПОСТЬ ЕНИКАЛЕ (Yenikale Fortress)
Built in the early 18th century, this fortress allowed the Turks to control the Kerch Strait. In 1774, it, along with the Crimean Peninsula, was ceded to Russia. The fortress then lost its strategic importance and fell into disrepair. Today, it’s one of the city's main symbols. According to legend, treasures are buried somewhere within its grounds, guarded by the ghost of a Turkish pasha.
