Borovsk

Borovsk is a town situated on the Protva River in Kaluga Oblast, featuring a historic core with traditional buildings and religious structures spread across its residential neighborhoods. The river cuts through the settlement, creating a natural boundary and defining the town's character with tree-lined banks and open spaces.

The town was founded in 1358 and initially belonged to the Principality of Ryazan before being absorbed into the Grand Duchy of Moscow in the 14th century. The construction of the St. Paphnutius Monastery in 1444 and later structures from the Boris Godunov era demonstrate how the settlement became a significant religious center.

The St. Paphnutius Monastery serves as a spiritual and cultural anchor where pilgrims and visitors gather to experience orthodox traditions. The monastic life and religious practices visible here shape how locals and travelers understand the town's deeper identity and purpose.

The town is best explored on foot, as most points of interest are located within or near the center and are easily reached by walking. Spring through early fall offers the most comfortable visiting conditions, when weather is mild and paths are dry.

A local painter named Vladimir Ovchinnikov decorated building façades throughout downtown with large murals, transforming the area into an open-air gallery. These hand-painted artworks appear on residential and public buildings, creating visual surprises at almost every corner.