Mangazeya became the official symbol of Yamal

The legendary polar town of the 17th century Mangazeya became the official symbol of Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug. The ruins of the town are situated on the territory of Krasnoselkoup district.

As the press-service of the governor of Yamal informs, more than 600 inhabitants participated in the popular voting. The sea port of Sabetta is on the second place, the historical territory “Lukomorye”, the monument “The exploratory well” in Noviy Urengoy and the composition “The Mammoth” in Salekhard are on the next place. All these 5 objects were recognized as the symbols of Yamal. As we should note, 44 symbols participated in the preliminary selection – historical and natural monuments, architectural and infrastructural objects. Mangazeya is the first Russian polar town in Siberia. The image of the ancient town was restored on descriptions of historians and on legends. It was founded by the initiative of the Tsar’s administration – as the supporting point for moving of Russians farther into Siberia, for trade and collection of fees. The name “Zlatokipyaschaya Mangazeya” (approximately means: Mangazeya rich with gold) appeared later because of riches of this land, first of all, on furs and gold. Excavations were started in the 20th century. It was defined that Mangazeya had been consisted of a kremlin with buildings inside, a Gostiny Dvor (a mediaeval trading establishment), a customs point and houses of merchants. In total there were 4 streets and more than 200 houses in the town.