Crimea: A History

Crimea has a rich history spanning three millennia, with a diverse population of Greeks, Scythians, Tartars, Russians, Armenians, and Genoese. It has been a crossroads between Europe and Asia, with ships sailing to and from its ports and a mosaic of religious beliefs. Yalta and its environs were a popular Black Sea Riviera for two centuries, hosting meetings between Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2024
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Crimea has once again captured the world's attention, much like it did during the Crimean War 160 years ago. Despite its historical significance, there have been relatively few books published on the history of this fascinating peninsula. For many readers, Crimea remains as remote today as it was during its colonization by the ancient Greeks. In his book, Neil Kent delves into the rich history of Crimea spanning over three millennia. Positioned at a crossroads between Europe and Asia, Crimean ports played a vital role in facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and the dissemination of ideas and innovations. A diverse array of civilizations, including Greeks, Scythians, Tartars, Russians, Armenians, and Genoese, have settled on the peninsula throughout its long history, contributing to a diverse demographic landscape that reflects the region's geography. The religious beliefs of the inhabitants are equally diverse, encompassing Hebraicized beliefs of the Karaim Tartars, Islam, Judaism, Russian and Greek Orthodoxy, as well as Roman Catholicism. This religious mosaic is evident in the numerous places of worship and palaces that adorn Crimea, such as the imperial Romanov Massandra, the noble nest of Prince Voronzov at Alupca, and the Palace of Bakhchisaray constructed for the Tartar Khan. For over two centuries, Yalta and its surroundings served as a renowned Black Sea Riviera, hosting pivotal meetings between Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin at the end of World War II. These meetings played a crucial role in shaping the post-war world and solidifying the alliances that would endure for decades. Crimea's historical significance and its unique position at the crossroads of continents continue to captivate scholars, historians, and enthusiasts alike. Its rich heritage and diverse cultural landscape make it a valuable treasure that deserves to be explored and appreciated.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 215 x 138 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911723356