16 postcard images of the world's largest city north of the Arctic Circle
In 1973, as is true today, Murmansk was the largest city in the world north of the Arctic Circle. Since the counterrevolution in the USSR its population has declined from a height of over 450,000 to just under 300,000 in 2014.
During the Soviet era the city was an important port and naval center as well as being home to various industries and fisheries. It played a critical role during World War II as a destination for Allied aid convoys to the Soviet Union thanks to its rail and road connections with Moscow and its ice free harbour. Despite never having fallen to the German troops that tried to capture it, Murmansk was severely damaged by constant artillery and air bombardment. As with other Soviet cities it was rebuilt and greatly expanded after the war.
For its remarkable resistance the city was designated as a Hero City of the USSR in 1985.
This set of 16 summertime postcard images was aimed at both a domestic and foreign audience with descriptive text in five languages.
The images are a terrific compilation of diverse streetscapes, important buildings and monuments and, unsurprisingly, a number of maritime and naval photos.
The Railway Station
The Kirov Palace of Culture
Lenin Avenue
The Port Building
The House of Soviets
Captain Jegorov Street
Regional Drama Theatre
Monument to the Heroic Sixth Battery
The Sixth Battery played a critical role in defending the city during the constant German attacks. It took heavy losses and displayed exceptional bravery.
The Murmansk Port
The House of Political Education
The Building of the Northern Fisheries and the Regional Trade Union Council
The Rodina Cinema
The Fishing Port
Regional Library
New Residential District on Varnichny Hill
Kola Bay
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