Tula Tula is one of the oldest cities in Russia that has been founded in 1146. It is the central city of Tula oblast and has a population of more than 560.000 people. It is not only an industrial center but also a cultural point. Tula is a world famous place because of her once glamorous resident-the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy who lived at Yasnaya Polyana, which is just ten kilometers away from the town. Tula also is rather famous for its weaponry masters, who produced world-known guns. Some of the items are displayed at the wonderful museum. Moreover, Tula is famous for its gorgeous Samovars, the grandfather of the contemporary electric kettle. They were invented at the end of the 17th century by the same smiths who produced weapons. Initially this industry was just a sideline until they decided to concentrate on the new samovar business. The best exemplars of Tula samovars are exhibited at the local museum. Extremely delicious Pryaniki, or honey pastry add to Tula's fame. They come in 100 different kinds and shapes. You definitely should indulge yourself in Tula's Pryaniki in order to get real taste of a real cookie. Being an old city, Tula preserved a number of splendid churches and cathedrals and the Kremlin.
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