Tula

Tula is a city in western central Russia, situated about 193 kilometers (120 miles) south of Moscow along the banks of the Upa River. The central streets are arranged around the old fortress, while newer residential areas spread across the surrounding hills of the Central Russian Upland.

The fortress was built in stone in 1530 to protect the southern borders of the Muscovite state from raids. In 1552, it withstood a prolonged siege by Tatar forces, which confirmed its strategic importance.

The city remains a center for craftsmanship, particularly metalwork, and visitors can observe artisans practicing traditional techniques in workshops around the old town. On weekends, locals gather in the central squares, where markets sell regional specialties including pryaniki, a form of gingerbread that has been baked here for centuries.

Trams, trolleybuses, and regular bus lines connect the various districts with each other and with the main railway station, which offers train services to Moscow. The central area can be explored on foot, as most points of interest are clustered near the old fortress walls.

The arms plant was founded in 1712 by Peter I and remains the oldest facility of its kind in the country, still operating today. One of the buildings houses a museum that guides visitors through exhibition halls displaying weapons from different eras.