«Goto Predestinatsia» and the Cradle of the Russian Navy

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

In the previous post, I wrote about the first Russian Emperor Peter the Great. One of his most outstanding acts was Russian navy creation. He was fond of sea from his childhood. Then he had little boat. When he became mature, he went to Europe to learn shipbuilding.

In the late XVII century, ships were necessary for the Azov campaigns. Peter the Great chose Voronezh as a place where the navy would be built. Shipbuilders from all Russia and Europe went to Voronezh (it is located about 500 kilometers from Moscow and 1000 from St. Petersburg).

After the first Azov campaigns it was decided to construct more powerful warships. And in November 19, 1698 the construction of the first Russian battleship «Goto Predestinatsia» («God's Foresight») began.

Through 3 centuries in July 27, 2014 on the Day of the Russian Navy on Voronezh embankment the active historical copy of «Goto Predestinatsia» was opened. Now it is a museum and everyone can visit it, look inside and learn about Peter the Great and Russian Navy. There are elements of old ship equipment in the museum exposition. People can also see objects of everyday life of officers and lower ranks of the team. 

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

The ship was accurately recreated both outside and inside. The reconstructors used the extant drawings and watercolors.

This drawing I found in Russian Central Naval Museum in St. Petersburg.

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

This little copy of "Goto Predestinatsia" is exhibited in Voronezh regional museum. By the way, Voronezh became famous town largery thanks to Peter the Great and his decision to built the navy on the Voronezh River.

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

The length of  «Goto Predestinatsia» vessel is 38.5 m, width – 9.5 m, height without a mast – 4.5 m. The ship has 3 masts and two decks. «Goto Predestinatsia» has 32 guns of different calibers.

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

Initially, 58 guns were to be installed, but copy creators decided to make spare space for future exhibition projects. Those guns, which did not fit on the ship, were installed on the pier. Now only five people manage it while back in the days there were about 200 sailors.

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh

Citizens are proud of «Goto Predestinatsia». Moreover, they are proud that Voronezh (not St. Petersburg) is called the cradle of the Russian navy.

The ship like magnet attracts children and adults. Even the French actor Pierre Richard visited it being in Voronezh. In addition, two films were shot there.

I wonder what Peter the Great would say if he saw this «Goto Predestinatsia».

Goto Predestinatsia, Voronezh