Staraya Ryazan, Ancient settlement ruins in Spassky District, Russia
Staraya Ryazan is an archaeological site near a river that reveals the layout of a medieval settlement with buildings, walls, and religious structures spread across the land. The physical remains show how a significant regional center was organized and built.
The settlement served as a regional center beginning in the 9th century until Mongol forces destroyed it in 1237, ending its importance overnight. Following this destruction, the land remained empty and was never rebuilt as a functioning community.
The site reflects the skilled craftsmanship that flourished here, with traces of how artisans worked for the local ruling families. Walking through the ruins, you can sense the expertise and care that went into creating objects of value for those in power.
The site can be explored on foot with remains scattered across the open ground, and the river valley shapes the surrounding landscape. Allow time to wander through the space and note that you can move freely across the excavated areas.
A medieval workshop found in 2013 contains tools and raw materials that offer direct insight into how craftspeople worked and produced their goods. This discovery is exceptionally rare because it preserves the actual workspace where artisans practiced their skills.
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