Bezhetsk

Bezhetsk (Russian: Бежецк) is a town in Tver Oblast, Russia, located on the Mologa River at its confluence with the Ostrechina River. It serves as the administrative center of Bezhetsky District, although it is not administratively a part of it. Population: 24,517 (2010 Census preliminary results); 28,643 (2002 Census); 30,377 (1989 Census); 29,000 (1967). Bezhetsk was first mentioned as Bezhichi in 1137, when it was owned by Novgorod. Original name, interpreted as refugees, suggests that early settlers were former Novgorodians. Historical Bezhichi were located 20 kilometers north from the present-day town; the settlement was destroyed by raiders in 1272 and re-established on present site as Gorodetsk fortress. In the early 15th...