Ostashkov, Historic town on Lake Seliger, Russia
Ostashkov is a town on a peninsula at the southern shore of Lake Seliger, with streets arranged in neoclassical style. Numerous Orthodox churches and traditional buildings define the character of the settlement.
The area grew from two villages founded by survivors of a pirate attack on Klichen Island, with Ostashko starting one settlement and Timofey establishing the other. These two origins eventually merged into a single town.
The town takes its name from its founder Ostashko and has long served as a center of religious life with multiple churches and monasteries. The Orthodox buildings shape the streetscape and reflect how deeply faith has been woven into the community's identity.
The town connects to larger cities via a railway line between Bologoye and Velikiye Luki, with regular trains serving Moscow. The best time to visit is during warmer months when the lake and surrounding areas are easily accessible.
The Nilov Monastery sits on Stolobny Island, roughly 10 kilometers to the north and reachable only by boat. The island has become an important pilgrimage destination and offers solitude far from the mainland.
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