Architectural and Archaeological Studies in the Tobolsk Kremlin During the 1950s (Based on Photographic Documents at the Tobolsk Museum-Reserve)

Abstract

In the 1950s, large-scale excavations were carried out under the Tobolsk Kremlin restoration project in order to examine its monuments of stone architecture. Published accounts of the findings are scarce. Valuable sources of information are the photographic archives of the Tobolsk Historical and Architectural Museum-Reserve. Materials include photographs of excavations and photocopies of drafts and plans. Owing to these and certain other sources, it has become possible to say exactly where and how the excavations were conducted, which monuments were detected, and how the findings were used during the restoration of the kremlin. Several dozen test pits made possible to evaluate the condition of the foundations, their layout, and depth. The most important result of the work carried out under F.G. Dubrovin’s guidance, is the study of late 17th century fortifications. Owing to numerous reconstructions, they have survived to this day in a rather fragmented state. Large areas of the northern, southern, and eastern fortifications were revealed, including remains of walls and towers. Their foundations were cleared; their exact location and general layout were assessed.