Mangazeya

Mangazeya was a significant 17th-century Siberian trade colony, founded in 1600 CE by Cossacks from Tobolsk. It was located strategically on the Taz River, serving as a major hub for the fur and ivory trade between Siberia and European merchants, earning it the nickname 'Baghdad of Siberia.' The city featured a wooden Kremlin and a bustling marketplace known as Gostiny dvor. Its prosperity led to jealousy from inland merchants and fear of foreign influence, resulting in its closure to outsiders in 1619 CE. Mangazeya was ultimately abandoned following a devastating fire in 1678 CE, with its population relocated to Turukhansk. Archaeological discoveries in the 20th century unveiled its previously forgotten location, highlighting its historical importance.