AN INTRODUCTORY TOUR OF KERCH

Kerch is the oldest city in Ukraine and it dates back 2,600 years. There's a lot of history here, but that's not all Kerch has to offer!

The capital of the legendary Bosporan Kingdom, the charming, historic city of Kerch occupies the easternmost tip of the Crimean Peninsula and nestles between the shores of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. Isolated by terrain and a city closed to outsiders during the Soviet era, the Hero-City has maintained a distinctive character of its own and visitors who venture here will be pleased by what they discover in this delightful city on the sea.

Kerch makes a wonderful daytrip from the Feodosia and Koktebel areas, which are about two hours west by bus or marshutka, but Kerch merits more time and should be a destination on any Crimean traveler's itinerary! In summertime, it is a delight, with access to uncrowded beaches, seaside walks, the vista from Mitridate Mount and many pleasant diversions. Even in winter, visitors will find gracious people, a lively nightlife and interesting things to do and see here in this surprising city.

Once you visit Kerch, you will be eager to return! There are diversions to suit every one of your travel companions whether they are young or old!

The Old City Center is the Heart of Kerch

Residents of Kerch take pride in their fine community and relish life here. The tree-lined avenues and boulevards invite visitors to linger as they stroll along the sea or choose from the many eating-places near the base of Mitridate Mount. In the old center city area you can visit the oldest church in Eastern Europe, the Church of John the Baptist (8th C AD) and then indulge in a romantic carriage ride along the sea. Or you can see what's playing at Pushkin Theater and pause for a moment to consider the Monument to the Hero Cities that commands the center of the square. Then you can follow the crowds wandering along fashionable Lenin Street. You will find pleasant restaurants and clubs here as well as upscale shops. Street musicians and artists also ply their trade in this area and add to the lovely atmosphere. If you like karaoke, you'll find it here too. This is a lively pedestrian street in the heart of old Kerch where history and hip-hop meet and coexist.

Perhaps you are drawn to the sea. Kerch has an impressive city park that stretches along the shore. Night and day, people stroll arm-in-arm along the water, and often sit talking in one of the numerous outdoor cafes that are part of the lively life in summertime Kerch. For those who want to dance until dawn, there are several clubs and outdoor discos along the sea. A small amusement park including an enormous Ferris wheel provides entertainment for youngsters and there is an area for swimming too. You will often see people fishing here and of course, you will see ships transiting Kerch Strait. In early spring, swans populate the bay and add a regal tone to the area.

As you leave the sea behind you, may wish to stop for a meal or a cup of tea or coffee at one of the charming restaurants on tree-lined Theater Street before you tackle the climb up Mitridate Mount. This landmark dominates the center city and no visit to Kerch would be complete without a trip to the top.

Well, are you ready to climb?

When you reach the top of the steps you may be huffing and puffing, but the stunning panorama of the surrounding bay really will take your breath away. It is even more beautiful on a warm summer night under a full moon with the lights from Russia twinkling on the horizon just a few kilometers away. City sounds drift up from below and cool breezes tease the air.

There are 432 steps on the historic stairway leading to the top of the 94 meter high Mitridate Mount. Pause for a photo opportunity at the base of the impressive stairway and take note of the two large stone griffins (1833) that guard the assent. The city symbol of Kerch is the griffin, a mythical beast with the wings of an eagle and the body, hind legs, and tail of a lion.

Now, onward and upward!

Half way up Mitridate Mount, history buffs will be delighted to discover the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Panticapaeum. Yes, 2,600 years ago Kerch was once the capital of the powerful Bosporan Kingdom. A wealth of fascinating antiquities and architectural finds are scattered throughout the region and a major excavation is right on Mitridate Mount. Archeologists come from all over the world to work at this excavation site!

Those who want to indulge their love of antiquities or archeology will want to spend some time at one of the fine museums under the management of the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve. Many of the major treasures unearthed locally are on display at the Hermitage in St Petersburg, but what remains in present day Kerch is still an amazing collection of artifacts and well worth a visit. (See the HISTORY & SIGHTS sections of this web site for more details).

If you are in the vicinity of Mitridate Mount during early May, you might have a chance to see history come alive! Along with fireworks on the bay, great food and entertainment, you will see a dramatic re-enactment with hundreds of Greek soldiers bearing torches storming up the stairway under a star-filled night sky. Mark your calendar and make hotel reservations for next May so you can see this one-of-a-kind festival for yourself!

But don't stop now; keep on climbing until you reach the towering obelisk at the top of the stairway. The Obelisk of Glory was erected in 1944 and there is an eternal flame burning to commemorate those who served in the Great Patriotic War. There is an annual parade of veterans up the mount each year in May! The hillside is covered with people picnicking, singing and paying tribute to the survivors.

Now that you have caught your breath, take in the spectacular view! This is a great place to get a feel for what else you may wish to do while you are in Kerch. You can see for miles. To the north on the edge of the sea, you can catch glimpses of the Turkish Eni-Kaleh Fortress as well as more Greek ruins. And to the south, you may make out the ruins of Ft Totleben, the site of the Eltigen landing operation and the Opuk Nature Preserve. You will also see salt lakes and mud flats as well as ancient burial tombs. These sites make wonderful excursions so plan to take along a picnic with some local bread, sausages, wine and cheese from the large outdoor bazaar, and make a day of hiking and exploring!

Or maybe the view will inspire you to plan a day at the beach! From late May through Early October you can swim at one of the many pocket beaches or the spacious golden beaches at Eltigen. Within a half hour you can find many wonderful places to swim and sun on the Black Sea, Kerch Strait or on the Sea of Azov. Maybe a camping trip or horseback riding or a bicycle ride along the shore.

Oh, soooo much to see and do and so little time! We think you will agree that Kerch is a marvelous place to while away your days, so start now to make your vacation plans!

You can find more details in the HISTORY & SIGHTS sections or other areas of this website.

We hope to see you soon!

A CITY WITH A PAST

Kerch is the oldest city in Ukraine and in 2005 celebrated its 2,600-year anniversary. During Soviet times, Kerch was a closed city, so outsiders could not visit. These days visitors are encouraged to come and discover the joys of life in Kerch!

There are many fascinating legends attached to Kerch and its history. According to Homer and other highly regarded ancient Greek authors, Achilles, the hero of the Trojan Wars was born on the Kerch Straits.

Another legend explains how the Greeks managed to find this Crimean paradise. The ancient Greeks controlled the size of their settlements by asking all but the oldest sons to leave and find new places to settle. And so over twenty-six centuries ago, a group set sail from Greece in search of new and undiscovered lands.

During the voyage, a mighty storm blew up; passengers hid below deck as the winds raged and the ship tossed for two long days. When the storm finally subsided, and the sun reappeared, the passengers thought their ship had blown back to Greece, but they were on the shores of the Kerchian Peninsula in eastern Crimea. Here they found a paradise with beautiful, rich agricultural land, and two seas from which they could fish, trade and play.

So it was in the 7th Century BC Greek colonists founded Crimea's most ancient town, Panticapaeum, where present-day Kerch now prospers. Panticapeum was a progressive city and built quite a reputation for innovations. It is among the first cities along the Black Sea regions to produce actual money. In about the 6th Century, the Panticapaeums minted silver coins.

In 480 BC, Panticapaeum became the capital of the powerful Bosporan Kingdom, a kingdom that came into existence following the union of the Hellenic and Barbarian worlds. Kerch was an ideal location for the capital because they could control ship traffic and trade through the Kerch Strait between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

The Greeks prospered here and built several settlements. They fished, farmed and produced excellent wines. They left a tremendous legacy of architectural, archeological and sociological artifacts and antiquities behind which makes present day Kerch a very special city. (Read more in the SIGHTS section)

The thriving Bosporan Kingdom continued as a major world power through the 1st Century BC, when the Tsar Mitridate YI Yevpatorus' 40-year war with Rome devastated the local economy. In 63 BC, Bosporan towns revolted and the Tsar's own son lead them in an armed rebellion against him. They laid siege on the acropolis at Panticapaeum on the side of Mitridate Mount.

Not willing to surrender to his enemies, Mitridate took poison. Unfortunately, it failed because in an attempt to foil previous enemy plots to poison him, he had routinely taken small amounts of poison throughout his life. In desperation, Mitridate ordered his own bodyguard to stab him to death.

Mitridate was later termed, "the greatest of rulers with whom Rome had ever been in war"

It wasn't until 43 BC that the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar finally defeated the mighty Bosporans in Asia Minor. It was in reference to his battles against the Bosporan that Caesar sent the famous cryptic report to the Roman Senate: "Veni, vidi, vici." (I came, I saw, I conquered.)

By the 3rd Century AD, the Bosporan rule was almost over and the once mighty kingdom dwindled. Aggressive Goths advanced from north of the Sea of Azov and Goth pirates ruthlessly raided the Black Sea coastal towns. By the 4th Century AD, the Huns conquered and burned what was left of the Bosporan Kingdom.

Life continued and people prospered here, but the area never regained the power it had in the past. In the intervening centuries, Crimea had many influences, from the Byzantines, the Venetians, Genoese (14th Century), the Turks (15th Century) and Tartars, the Mongols, and the Armenians. . Battles waged and history books are full of exciting tales of these intervening years, but none of the stories are as impressive as those of the Bosporan Kingdom.

Russia annexed the area in 1771. Russian merchants and craftspeople actually began arriving in the Kerch area in the Middle Ages. When Crimea became part of Russia, serfs from the central regions resettled here on the strait. Disabled veterans and Cossacks received Crimean land as a reward for their service. The influx of Russians continued as the railroad found its way across the eastern peninsula.

Kerch's history does not end in the glorious past.

Kerch was severely damaged in the Crimean War (1853-1856). On May 25th, 1855, Kerch suffered an amphibious assault involving ten thousand French, five thousand British, and two thousand Turkish troops. They marched on the town while small craft on the sea provided gunfire support. They penetrated the Sea of Azov. The Russians, not willing to stay and fight, destroyed their forts, scuttled their ships, and fled.

The French, Turks and British sacked the city of Kerch, including the archeological museum on the side of Mitridate Mount which housed the vast collections of irreplaceable antiquities and cultural treasures.

The Great Patriotic War

The Great Patriotic War (WWII) devastated much of Europe and took its toll in Kerch too. Despite everything, the indomitable spirit of the local citizens helped them survive.

An amazing story unfolded on May 20th, 1942, when Hitler's troops occupied the Kerch Peninsula and over ten thousand men, women and children hid underground in the Adzhimushkai Stone Quarries where they remained hidden and close to starvation until late October 1942 - after 170 days they prevailed and were free to come out again! The courageous citizens of Kerch proved their stamina again in November and December 1943 when the historic Kerch-Eltigen Landing Operation took place and battle blazed on Mount Mitridate right in the heart of the city.

April 11th, 1944, the city of Kerch was liberated from their German invaders, but not before 30,000 inhabitants were tormented or shot and 14,000 people were removed to Germany. Each year, the citizens of Kerch set aside this day to commemorate their release from Fascism.

The city of Kerch was officially recognized as one of the 13 Hero City of the Soviet Union, honoring the incredible courage and bravery of the local citizens and soldiers during those cruel years of the Great Patriotic War. The Hero monument is located in Lenin Square and lists all thirteen cities with Kerch at the center.

In recent years, Kerch has become a thriving port community and has sustained a fine fishing industry for several decades. Now it is a scientific, industrial and cultural center. It is a city of miners, metallurgists and shipbuilders. Kerch is a seaport and fishing center. It is also a manufacturing center, producing iron and steel, machinery and chemicals. The area is rich in iron ore and natural gas. Kerch is home to an oceanographic research institute.

In 1999, Kerch was home to over 164,000 people. The gracious city stretches 52 kilometers along the Kerch Strait and covers approximately 108 square kilometers. The tree-lined streets, charming restaurants, and numerous sites make is an inviting city to call home and it is a wonderful place to relax and vacation.

Mitridate Mount

Located in the center of present day Kerch, this 94-meter hill dominates the city. It was once the site of the capital of the Bosporan Kingdom, Panticapaeum. Climb the 432 stairs of the Great Mitridate Staircase guarded by a pair of huge stone griffins (built in the1830's) and you can see the ruins of the acropolis where teams of archeologists continue to work.

The mount was also home to many other ancient structures. A visit to the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve or one of their museums (See below) is an excellent start for any visitor wanting to learn more about the wonders of local history and architecture.

There is a panoramic view of the eastern tip of the peninsula from atop the mount. At the peak is the Glory Obelisk with its eternal flame. Erected in 1944, it is a memorial to the valiant soldiers who served in the Great Patriotic War. Each year on Victory Day (May 9), veterans ascend the mount in an impressive march. There are commemorative parades, fireworks, picnics. and the Battle of Mitridate Mount is re-enacted too.

Church of St John the Baptist

Located opposite the Post Office in Lenin Square, near the sea, is the oldest Church in Ukraine and Eastern Europe. Persecuted in ancient Rome, Christians sought asylum in other countries. During the 1st Century A.D, fleeing Christians first appeared in the Bosporan state. The unique Byzantine Church of St. John the Precursor (717-778) is a tribute to that era. It is still used for church services.

Konstantin's Staircase

Located off Lenin Street, this stairway (built in 1868) up Mitridate Mount is not as well maintained as the Grand Stairway, but provides a view of the central city and bazaar.

Hero City Monument

Located adjacent to the main post office and Pushkin Theater in Lenin Square, is the monument of the Hero Cities. Kerch is one of the special cities awarded the designation of Hero City of the Soviet Union, due to outstanding valor during the events of the Great Patriotic War. Atop the monument is a golden griffin, the symbol of the city of Kerch

Other Monuments

There are monuments and antiquities scattered throughout the town on the many pedestrian walkways. Brief description of a few of these monuments follow.

Afghanistan War Memorial

Located in the park area on Lenin Square near the Church of St John, this recently renovated monument and eternal flame commemorates the Afghanistan War dead.

Chernobyl Monument

On the main avenue near the Archeological Museum, this modern piece depicts a distraught woman with arms reaching out and up. It commemorates the nuclear power plant accident at Chernobyl on April 26, 1986. Many Kerch citizens risked their lives to be part of the rescue and clean up crew following the incident.

Children's Monument

Located adjacent the base of Mitridate Mount's Grand Staircase in the park area of Pushkin Theater. This statue honors the children who suffered and died during the Great Patriotic War.

Pushkin Monument

In the seaside park in the central city is a monument to the author Pushkin depicting him as a young man.

Shevchenko Monument

On the main street near the canal, on a lovely tree line boulevard with a fountain and several other monuments is a statue of this special Ukrainian. This avenue is a lovely place to stroll and observe the old architecture of the city.

Parks

There are many small pocket parks with greenery and benches throughout the city. The main park is quite large. It stretches along the sea near the center city and has, many cafes, discos, picnic spots, swimming areas and an array of children's amusement rides as well as a children's play fountain. You can see the enormous Ferris wheel from all over the area. Public toilets are available near the Devil's wheel (Ferris Wheel). On local maps, you will see numerous other parks to explore.

Beaches

There is easy access to the Black Sea, the Kerch Straits and the more isolated Sea of Azov. There are more solar light hours in the Strait area (1,790 hours) than the famous resort town of Yalta!

The official bathing season in the Kerch area for adults begins 21 May and runs through 9 October. The Children's season is 30 May - 14 September.

In the center of Kerch, there is a public swimming facility and swimming areas, but there are no sand beaches. It is, however, easy to catch public transportation to a variety of delightful beaches in outlying areas. You may wish to find accommodations nearby and simply walk to the water! Kerchians themselves prefer the beaches at Eltigen.

There are hundreds of kilometers of virgin beach to choose from and many inviting "pocket beaches". This is one of the rewards of being isolated here on the tip of the peninsulas (Kerch is on a peninsula of a larger peninsula actually!). On one beach on the Sea of Azov, there are pines among the dunes. This is quite unusual in Crimea. On this end of the peninsula, we do no have many trees so it is unique in more ways than one.

Mud Volcanoes and Salt Lakes

Mud volcanoes are a wonderful and rare phenomenon. There are only several dozen places with mud volcanoes in the world, but Kerchian volcanoes are among the most rare; they are cold mud volcanoes.

Kerch is fortunate to have approximately 10 salt lakes around the area. The most famous is Chokrak Lake. During ancient times, doctors used the mud from these sites for medical purposes.

Opuk Nature Preserve

In May of 1998, the Opuk Nature Preserve was established and contains more than 65 kinds of unsual mammals, fish, birds, and insects. The reserve is home to a rare pink starling community.

This plateau, south of Kerch proper, is strikingly beautiful and is the official spot where the waters of the Kerchian Strait meet the waters of the Black Sea. An ancient trading settlement developed here because of its ideal geographical position. The fortifications and structures were part of the famous rampart built by Alexander the Great that crossed the Kerchian peninsula from Opuk on the Black Sea to the bay of Kazantip on the Sea of Azov. This rampart system (1 AD) consisted of 3600 towers and ran for 70 km across the peninsula.

Fortresses and Fortifications

Kerch, due to its strategic location, played an extremely important role in past battles and wars. As a result, several fortifications were built throughout the region and some still survive. In addition to those built by the Greeks during the Bosporan era, there are two other significant examples.

The Turks built Yeni-Kale Fortress on the northern tip of the city, in 1703-1706, and it was the largest in Crimea; its walls still display signs of its past greatness. It kept the Russian Navy out of the Black Sea. Catch the bus to this area and explore the ruins.

Another remarkable stronghold of Eastern Crimea located on the shore of the Kerchian Strait is fortress Kerch (sometimes called Fort Totleben). It is famous for its ingenious military engineering, making it an almost impenetrable fortress. During the Crimean War (1853-1856), not one invader managed to break through its mighty walls. It is still one of the most perfectly built defensive buildings in the world. The fortress' architecture is quite remarkable because it seems to blend in so naturally to its environment. This fort was a garrison for 5,000 people, and is made up of about 300 buildings. The retrenchment is on the highest point (110 meters) on the Kerch Peninsula and offers a splendid view of Russia and the surrounding area.

MUSEUMS

The Underground Museum of the Defense of the Adzhimushkai Quarries

(Included in the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve)

Open daily, except Mondays, from 9 AM-6 PM

36 Malchenko Street, Adzhimushkai Village, Kerch

Ph: (06561) 5-40-01 or 5-49-01

From the 1st Century AD, limestone was mined on the Kerchian Peninsula and used to construct buildings. Quarry operations in a northeast suburb of present day Kerch, created an underground labyrinth that provided excellent hiding places during wartime. During the Great Patriotic War (WWII) the Adzhimushkai, quarries became an underground fortress for the partisans when the German troops occupied Kerch. For more than 170 days, over 10,000 Soviet soldiers survived underground in a brave and tireless effort fighting against the Germans and preparing for the return of the Soviet army. Men, women and children from the Kerch community also hid in the underground "cave" and struggled to survive during those months with only small supplies of food and water.

Today Adzhimushkai is a unique underground museum where you can see not only relics from the war, but you can also witness the conditions in which these courageous people lived during those long dark months.

NOTE: You may only visit the museum when a guide is present.

The Heroes of Adzhimushkai Picture Gallery

(Included in the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve)

Open daily, except Wednesdays, from 10 AM-6 PM

36 Teatralnaya Street, Kerch

Ph: (06561) 2-20-86

This is a permanent exhibition gallery of 140 paintings and works by N. Yakolevich, winner of the Taras Shevchenko State Prize of Ukraine. The works depict images of those whose fortitude and bravery made them heroes during the Adzhimushkai Quarries Defense.

The History of the Eltigen Landing Operation Museum

(Included in the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve)

Open daily, except Mondays, from 9 AM-6 PM

32 Petrova Street, Eltigen Village, Kerch

Ph: (06561) 2-04-75

The museum is located on the patch of land where Soviet troops disembarked on November 1, 1943. They battled the enemy for 36 days at this site and finally broke through the enemies' defenses, marched 20 kilometers to town and fought a heavy four-day battle on Mitridate Mount.

ANCIENT GREEK SITES

Kerch State History and Culture Preserve

7 Sverdlov Street, Kerch

Ph: (06561) 2-04-75

This organization oversees and operates several of the local museums and sites listed below. Kerch is rich in world-class archaeological findings from the days when the area was named Panticapaeum and was the capital of the Bosporan Kingdom. Many of the rarest finds are in the Hermitage (St Petersburg, Russia) but the local collections are rich and worth seeing. The lapidarian is particularly noteworthy.

On the preserved area measuring 64.5 Hectares, are the ancient towns of Panticapaeum, Nymphaeum, Myrmekion, Tiritaka, the crypt of Demeter, and an ancient farmstead. The preserve includes numerous historic, architectural and archeological monuments and houses about 166,000 objects in its collection.

The preserve is also an important scientific institution with seven research and technical departments.

Tsar's Burial Mound

(Included in the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve)

Open daily, except Mondays, from 9 AM-6 PM

Adzhimushkai Village, Kerch

Ph: (06561) 5-47-13

This burial mound, often called the royal mound, and thought to belong to King Levkon I, one of the great kings of the Bosporan Kingdom, was discovered in Kerch during the end of the 19th Century. There exist only two such well-preserved burial mounds of this structure and architecture in the world; one is located in Greece and the other in Kerch. There is a remarkable visual effect at the mound's entrance, an optical illusion that makes the distance seem longer when you exit the tomb.

There are 1500 burial mounds in the Kerch area among them are the Tsar's Mound, Gold Melek-Chesme and the necropolis of Yus-Oba.

Kerch History and Archeology Museum

(Included in the Kerch State History and Culture Preserve)

Open daily, except Mondays, from 10 AM-6 PM

22 Sverdlov Street, Kerch

Ph: (06561) 2-04-75 or 2-18-60

The museum, originally called the Kerch Museum of Antiquities opened on June 2, 1826. It is one of the oldest museums in the country. The exhibits included an amazing collection of items found in excavating Panticapaeum and other cities of the Bosporan Kingdom. The original museum edifice was constructed on Mitridate Mount near the site of the initial excavation and was built to resemble Theseus Temple in Athens, Greece. Unfortunately, the museum was destroyed during the Crimean War and many of the items on display are now in the British Museum in London. Others items are found in the Hermitage in St Petersburg, though the remaining collection is noteworthy.

At present, the museum houses an impressive collection of archaeological effects, augmented by new findings from ongoing excavation work. There are over 160,000 items, including ceramics, artworks, glass, jewelry and much more. A clay theater ticket is among recent findings.



The museum possesses an extensive world-class collection (about 2,000 items) of lapidary monuments including burial slabs and sculptures dating from 4 BC - 14 AD. This collection is second only to one in Athens.

Currently under construction is an exhibit called the "Gold Chamber" that will display the riches of the Scythians and Greeks.

Panticapaeum

Located on the hillside of Mitridate Mount in city center, Panticapaeum was the name of the first settlement founded by the Greeks. Once, it was a city of more than 370 acres in the territory of modern Kerch and was the permanent residence of the Bosporan Kings. Today, you will find the remains of the central part of the ancient town – the acropolis – near the top of Mitridate Mount in the center of Kerch.

Near the top of the mount, hewn into the rocks, was a mighty citadel and a strongly fortified palace with connecting labyrinths.

On the northern slope of the hill was a trading square called the "agora". There were temples of Greek Gods and Goddesses, public buildings and statues. Panticapaeum had a good harbor and shipyard. Around the area of Mitridate Mount was a necropolis (a Greek cemetery). Inside the mount itself, many crypts were discovered, a number of which still bear the traces of ancient paintings. A testament to the historical significance of Panticapaeum, the site was listed among World Monument Watch's 100 Most Endangered Sites in 2004.

During the 5th Century B.C., all large Bosporan towns had walls with bastions and towers, gates, barrages, and ramparts. Panticapaeum had several lines of defense and remains of its magnificent fortresses can be found in Nymphaeum, Tiritaka, Myrmekion and Porphmiy. The walls were 70 kilometers long and fortified with 3,600 towers. They were visible until the beginning of the 19th Century.

In the 4th Century AD, the Huns destroyed most of the city and the area.

Nymphaeum

About 18 Kilometers south of Mitridate Mount, in the Southern part of Kerch, archaeologists (Eltigen/Geroyevka), discovered the remains of the ancient Greek city of Nymphaeum, founded in the 6th Century B.C. Ptolemy and other famous Greeks mentioned this city in their writings. Nymphaeum occupied about 9 hectares and consisted of an upper town with a palace, houses, and temple to Demetra and Aphrodite with marble statues; the lower town consisted of a harbor and craftsmen's shops.

The city minted it own coins and was closely connected through trade with Athens. Archeological evidence exists that indicates that winemaking began here in the 1st Century A.D. The land around Nymphaeum was used to grow grain. [Nymphaeum is currently a live archeological site.]

Tiritaka

This Greek city was about 11 kilometers south of Mitridate Mount in the southern part of modern Kerch. The city was a fishing community supplying troops in Asia Minor and Crimea. Winemaking complexes were also discovered there.

Myrmekion

This is a small ancient town on the northern extremity of the cape of modern Kerch. Part of the population were barbarians from Ukraine and Russia (north of the Sea of Azov). They farmed, fished, and had a winery. Many of the artifacts are now in the Hermitage in St Petersburg.

Winemaking: Wine was an essential part of the ancient Greek meal and was therefore an important import to Bosporus. Ancient Greek colonists imported wine to Bosporus aboard ships in special containers called amphorae. The earliest amphorae found in Bosporus dates back to the 6th Century B.C. The colonies later grew their own grapes and the oldest wineries were discovered in the Bosporus territory were built in the 5th Century B.C.

In the small Greek settlement known as Mirmekiy, or the "town of wine makers", archeologists discovered 13 wineries; some included wine tubs, which were capable of holding up to 5000 liters. One of the Mirmekiy wineries is still well preserved and contains many of the structures necessary for wine making. The areas for squeezing the grapes, the bottom of the press, and tubs for the juice are particularly in good condition.

Porphmiy

This small town is at the narrowest place in the straits, in the northern area of Kerch. It was a well-organized community and a comfortable one. Coins were found making it seem to be a commercial center. Farming was good and there is evidence of milling as well as an active fishing industry. It controlled the strait crossing and was probably comprised of military settlers.

Crypts of Ancient Kerch

Crypts of noblemen and noblewoman were discovered in the area of Kerch formerly known as Panticapaeum. There were frescoes within the walls of these crypts and some of the world's leading scholars and archeologists have subsequently recognized them as truly unique examples of ancient art. Discovered in the 19th Century, Demetra's Crypt (1st Century, AD) contained almost perfectly preserved frescoes. Sadly, flooding and environmental hazards created significant damage to the fresco and so the original crypt is currently closed to the public.

A technological model of the Demetra Crypt was created and may be open for public viewing downtown (at the bottom of Mitridate Stairs). Melek-Chesmen Crypt (the "Child's Crypt") is in the center of the city's main bus station.

There are numerous places to dine in the city, and they come alive in the summer months when tables spill out on the streets! The following are a few suggested by previous visitors, but check out some of the other fine local establishments or ask at your hotel for recommendations. You will find a variety of Russian and Tartar eateries and many cafes and bars, which also serve snacks.



Cafe Alyonka: Russian and Ukrainian fare. Lenin Square (downtown Kerch)

Prices: 25-50 hrn per person for a full course meal.

Cafe Premiera: Russian, Ukrainian and Italian food. Dubinina St. (downtown Kerch) Prices: 30-70 hrn per person for a full course meal.

Metro Bar and Pizza: Pizza and Russian dishes. Lenina Street (downtown Kerch) Prices: 7-18 hrn for a pizza, depending on size.

Cafe Grot: Russian and Ukrainian food. Teatralnaya St. (downtown Kerch). Can also order take out. Prices: 15-30 hrn per person for a full course meal

El Gran: Try the special conch shashlick Lenin Street (downtown Kerch)

Chai Dom: Wonderful selection of teas and coffees served in a lovely atmosphere. Smoke a hookah by the fireplace, or sip an ice cream drink at an outdoor table.

Mithridates Bar: Live music

This is just a small selection of the Kerch eating establishments that operate through out the area.

As you wander, you will find opportunities for a variety of activities such as, carriage rides, karaoke, theater, movies, horse and pony rides, bumper cars and amusement rides, public swimming or beach bumming, fishing, dancing and clubs, dining, strolling and hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, walking, shopping, surfing the Internet or gaming, and much, much more!

If you need help to organize a tour, outing, or other activity, contact one of the local agencies. Check with the staff at your hotel for recommendation or assistance.

Bospor Tours, 2 Naberezhnaya St. #204, Ph: 06561-2-82-55 or 2-82-51

*Can provide English translator

Prestige Tour, Near Kerch Central Bus Station Ph: 06561-2-14-74 or 2-38-79

*Can provide transportation for tours, including to and from Simferopol.

April 11: A day to commemorate the Defeat of Fascism in Kerch.

May 1-10: there are many festivals throughout the eastern Peninsula with the most notable:

May 1: May Day concerts, picnics and other festivities in the town.

May 8: A torchlight procession and re-enactment, picnics and fireworks on Mithridates Mount

May 9: Victory Day. parade of veterans, fireworks on Mithridates Mount

Second Sunday in June: Fisherman's Day or Neptune Festival. A very important holiday in Kerch. There are parades, music, food, fireworks and a parade of ships.

Second weekend of September marks the official Birthday for the city of Kerch: Concerts, sailing, music, local performances and a large disco in the city center.

Central Rinok & Bazaar

Across from the central bus station along the canal, this outdoor market is open every day and busiest during the morning hours. Commercial and private vendors sell everything from fruits and vegetables, cookies, flowers, to new and second hand clothes, kitchenware, and live puppies, chickens and rabbits. This is a great place to people watch! Try some famous Kerch herring, pick up some local honey mixed with walnuts, or linger over a pastry and a cup of tea at one of the cafes. Try the pickled salads on sale indoors - delicious and diverse flavors and don't miss the fish section! Make sure you take some photos here!

Lenin Street

On this pedestrian street in the old city center, there are upscale shops as well as pleasant restaurants, cafes and clubs. It is a lovely place to stroll and watch the fashion conscious folks walking arm-in-arm. There are nice views of Mount Mitridate and you might stop to play billiards or attend a concert at Pushkin Theater. In the summertime, you will want to linger at one of the sidewalk cafes or try the local ice cream parlor!

Clothing Bazaar

A few blocks from the Central bus station, near the stadium, is the clothing bazaar. Follow shoppers past the public bathrooms at the bus station and walk a few blocks to the sprawling clothing market. It is an outdoor market tucked behind a row of rather up-scale indoor shops. There are rows of amazing shoes and new clothing, furs and boots for all ages. Toward the back are secondhand clothing venders. Mornings are best, but venders linger till late afternoon. Why not buy a fur hat as a souvenir of your visit to Kerch?

Grocery Stores

There are several larger grocery store chains in the area, which carry more products from outside Ukraine and also have a nice selection of local products at reasonable prices. One popular chain store is located across from the Post Office in Lenin Square, a convenient location to purchase some Crimean wine and picnic supplies before ascending to the top of Mitridate Mount. Pick up some wine at the newest Crimean Wine store on Lenin street. This new and growing chain of stores opening throughout Crimea.

If you are without a private vehicle, you can rely on public transport or taxis cabs. You may also contact an agency (See the ACTIVITIES section) which can arrange excursions.

Kerch Bus Terminal: Ph. 5-35-72

Located in the city center adjacent to the large bazaar and close to the sea and the soccer stadium. (There is even a historic Greek site you can tour right at the bus station!) A clean pay toilet is adjacent the bus station.

Kerch Railway Station: Ph. 2-00-29

Easy access to marshutkas and taxis. The train station has clean pay toilets and a small bar on the premises.

Kerch Airline Agency: Ph. 2-30-44

Around Town - Marshutka, Trolleybus, Bus, and Taxi

Accommodations range from elegant to Spartan and the price ranges reflect that! Following are a few places suggested by previous visitors. Please let us know of others you discover!

Central Kerch

Hotel Kerch (Communist-style hotel. Located in the center of town. Approximately 15 minute bus ride to beach.) 11 Kirova Street Ph: 06561-2-12-04 or 2-11-55 Cost: 25-160 hrn depending on type of room

New listings to try but no information as yet:

Port Hotel located at the end of the trolley bus line 90-250 a person for a modern well appointed room.

Hotel Cappuccino Located across the street from St John's Church:

South Kerch

Hotel Classic (One block from the beach.) 9/2 Kurorthanaya Street, Ph: 06561-3-30-71, Email: tex@kerch.crimea.com Costs: 165-250 hrn per person depending on type of room (includes breakfast)

Hotel Zaliv (Less than one block from the beach.) 6/a Kurortnaya Street, Ph: 06561-3-45-08 Cost: 80-250 hrn per person depending on type of room (includes breakfast)

Sanatorium "Zaliv" (less than 1 block from the beach), Uglovaya St. Geroyevka Village, Kerch Ph: 06561-3-35-87 Cost: 100 hrn (includes three meals)

Pension at Kiev (less than 1 block from the beach) Moscovskaya St, Ph: 06561-4-30-34 or 4-45-28 Cost: 50-91 hrn. Depending on number of people per room, time of year and type of room requested (includes three meals)

Pensionat Mechta (less than 1 block from the beach), 8 Ordjonekedze St, Ph: 06561-35163 Cost: 45-150 hrn (includes three meals

Kerch Long Distance Calling Code: +38 06561

Kerch City Information Service: Ph. 2-11-32

Kerch City Web Site:

Kerch History and Culture Preservation Museum: 7 Sverdlov Street, Ph: 2-11-42.

Adzhimushkai Quarries Museum: Ph. 5-40-01

Tsar's Mound (Adzhimushkai Village): Ph. 5-47-13



Central Library: kerchlib-bel@yandex.ru

Website coming:

The Belinsky Central City Library is home to a new US Embassy sponsored LEAP Internet center and a well appointed research library. It is home to the Central City Library System which consists of 19 branch libraries, technical libraries, university and school libraries, Trade Unions and a new branch called "On the Open Hand" which provides the citizens of Kerch with access to meeting minutes and reports from all of the political offices of Kerch, the Antonymous Republic of Crimea and the Rada of Ukraine.