Valuyki, City center in Belgorod Oblast, Russia
Valuyki is a town in Belgorod Oblast in southwestern Russia, where the Valuy and Oskol Rivers meet. The settlement sits roughly one hundred fifty kilometers east of the regional capital and just fifteen kilometers from the Ukrainian frontier.
The settlement was founded in 1593 as a frontier fortress to defend against raids along the Muravsky trade route. Mounted groups from Crimea and the Nogai steppe regularly threatened the southern territories of the tsardom.
The population of this border city maintains connections with both Russian and Ukrainian communities, reflecting a mix of traditions and social practices.
The town offers basic facilities for travelers passing through, including rail connections and road links toward Belgorod and points south. Those crossing the region will find supplies and everyday services here.
In January 1943, units of the Italian 4th Alpine Division gathered here before surrendering to Soviet troops in the harsh winter cold. Many of the soldiers were unprepared for such conditions.
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