History of Azov

In X-XII centuries there was a Slavic settlement which included ancient Russian khanate on the place of modern Azov. In the XIII century the city Azak appeared on the place of Azov. Greta trade road to China crossed the city. In 1395 the city was ruined by forces of Timur (Tamerlan). In 1471 it was captured by Turkish pole and became Turkish military fortress. Turkish name of the city Azak was transformed into Azay; the last form was adopted by Russian as Azov.

In 1637 detachments of Cossacks seized Azov, in summer 1642 they left ruined fortress (which was rebuilt by Turkish people later). In 1696 Russian forces captured Azov.

Since 1708 Azov was a city, center of the Azov province. After unsuccessful camping of Russians the city was returned to Turkey (1711). In 1736 during Russian-Turkish war (1736-1739) Russian forces captured Azov. But according to the Belgrade peaceful treaty (1739) Azov and Taganrog became neutral territories (constructions and fortifications were destroyed).

In 1769 during Russian-Turkish war 91768-1773) it was again occupied by Russian forces.

In 1775 according to the peaceful treaty it became Russian. In 1776-1782 Azov became a center of the Azov region.