Putin Views Newly Found Remains of Medieval Prince

Russian President Vladimir Putin viewed the open white-stone sarcophagus of Prince Dmitry Donskoy at the  Cathedral of the Archangel in Moscow after his remains were unexpectedly discovered during restoration work.

The cathedral in the Kremlin served as a burial place for more than 40 rulers. Historians knew the prince's body was interred in the building, but the discovery in the crypt by the south wall surprised them, as they had assumed it was located elsewhere.

The well-preserved and nearly complete remains belong to a man just under 180 cm tall who died at the age of 35 to 45, which fully corresponds to historical sources. During his visit, Putin lit a candle and listened to experts explain the identification process.

Dmitry Donskoy (1350-1389) is one of the most significant figures in Russian history. He ruled the principalities of Muscovy and Vladimir, laying the foundations of the Russian state. He oversaw the construction of the first stone fortress, the Kremlin, and in 1380 he defeated the Mongol horde in the Battle of Kulikovo Field near the Don river.

(Reuters, max)