Tula Oblast, located in the centre of European Russia in the Central Russian Upland, has a rich history. It is in this region that almost six centuries ago, in 1380, the Battle of Kulikovo took place between the forces led by Moscow prince Dmitry Donskoy and the Horde of Mamai. It is this famous battle that helped lead to the revival and establishment of the Moscow government. According to legend, Saint Sergius of Radonezh blessed the Tula Krai. From the beginning, the most beautiful and inspiring orthodox churches and monasteries have been built here, making up the holy treasures of ancient Rus’.