The Forgotten Serbian Count Who Founded a Russian City and Created the Longest Trade Route in History!
Did you know that a Serbian count, Sava Vladislavić Raguzinski, founded the Russian city of Troickosavsk (now Kyahta) three centuries ago and created the longest trade route in the history of civilization – the “Tea Road” stretching 13,000 kilometers? Yes, you read that right! While today we boast about modern achievements, this Serbian diplomat and visionary has remained almost unnoticed, and his story is a bombshell for all history and diplomacy lovers.
A City as a Monument to Eternal Peace
Troickosavsk was founded as a “city-monument to eternal peace” between Russia and China, and it bears the name of Saint Sava, the patron saint of Serbs. This city is not just an ordinary city – it is a symbol of a great diplomatic success and peace established by Count Vladislavić. Imagine, he managed to negotiate and agree on a border between Russia and China stretching 6,000 kilometers, preventing a war that could have lasted centuries!
International Committee and City Twinning
Recently, a conference was held in Belgrade to establish an international committee to commemorate 300 years since the founding of Troickosavsk. The initiative was launched by Sremski Karlovci and a descendant of Count Vladislavić, Branko Vukomanović, who emphasized that this is not just a Serbian-Russian story but a project involving China and Mongolia. Plans include twinning Sremski Karlovci and Kyahta, as well as registering the “Tea Road” as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Who Was Count Sava Vladislavić?
Count Vladislavić was a Serbian diplomat who served at the Russian court under Peter the Great. His mission in China and Russia was to establish peace and trade relations. He practically created the largest trade zone of his time, connecting East and West, and did so not with weapons but with wisdom and diplomatic skill.
Why Is His Story Important Today?
In a time when the world is burning with conflicts and misunderstandings, the story of a man who created the “Tea Road” as a symbol of peace and cooperation between great powers is more relevant than ever. The international committee aims to restore the church in Kyahta dedicated to Saint Sava and to restore the city’s original name, which was changed during the communist era.
Serbian Tradition and Culture in Russia
Sremski Karlovci, as guardians of Serbian tradition, history, and culture, erected the first monument to Count Vladislavić. Commemorating this anniversary is not just an act of remembrance but a reminder of the significance of the Serbian people in world history and diplomacy.
What Do Experts Say?
Writer Miodrag Ljumo Hrnjez, author of the epic poem about Count Sava, points out that Vladislavić indebted humanity with peace agreements. Ambassador Ljiljana Nikšonić emphasizes that he was a nobleman of great stature who managed to unite many countries and cultures.
Conclusion
While today we boast about modern technologies and global achievements, we forget people like Count Sava Vladislavić, who shaped the world as we know it with their deeds. Maybe it’s time to pay more attention to these forgotten heroes and learn that true power lies in peace, not in weapons.
So, what do you think? Did you know this incredible story? Or does it sound like something out of a movie? Drop a comment, share your thoughts, or just say – who else loves these historical bombshells?
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