The city was first mentioned as a Russian settlement in 1237. Yet, the official date of its foundation is considered 1593. This year the city was ramparted to protect the state from frequent Tatars’ attacks.

The city was founded in the place called Belgorodye meaning ‘White City’. The name of the city reflects the color of the ground in the region. Belgorod us situated in the center of the Chalk Southern region.

Starting from the 18th century the city becomes an important industrial and cultural center. Belgorod becomes the center of the Belgorod region in 1954.

During the Great Patriotic War the city saw vehement battles with the Nazi army in the course of the famous Kursk battle in 1943.

Presently, Belgorod is a pleasant-looking town with numerous attractions and buildings of blue and rose hues. The Intercession Church (1711), the Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk (1737-1764), the Polish Church (19th century), and the Transfiguration Cathedral (1813) with blue and golden domes define the image of Belgorod.