New 'Great Beginning' Trail to Link Historic Russian Heartland

A new national tourist route, named "Rus' Great Beginning," is being mapped across western Russia. The trail will connect sites in the Tula, Ryazan, and Kaluga regions, anchored by the historic Kulikovo Field.

The project, spearheaded by the Kulikovo Field Museum-Reserve in collaboration with regional tourism ministries, aims to launch by 2030. That year marks the 650th anniversary of the 1380 Battle of Kulikovo, a pivotal conflict credited with beginning the end of Mongol rule over medieval Rus'.

"We want every citizen to visit Kulikovo Field for this anniversary," said Olga Kashirina, the museum's head of excursions and tourism. "The idea started with making it accessible for people in nearby regions—from Kaluga and Moscow to Ryazan and Voronezh."

Museum officials describe the route as an interregional tour linking key landmarks from the era. To aid travelers, the museum is preparing a series of guidebooks. "The journey will be engaging and straightforward," noted deputy director Kristina Stolyarova.

Beyond tourism, organizers see broader benefits. Kashirina explained that a national route acts as a catalyst, encouraging local infrastructure improvements and attracting investment to the areas it touches. Museum staff are currently drafting the program's infrastructure plan, with a formal review and launch targeted for the 2030 jubilee.