This day in Russian history and the History of the world.

August 10

August 10, 1524: Novodevichy Convent was founded by Grand Prince Vasili III in commemoration of the conquest of Smolensk in 1514.

It is probably the best-known cloister of Moscow. Unlike other Moscow cloisters, it has remained virtually intact since the 17th century.

In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 1898 Novodevichy Cemetery inaugurated when it was judged that there were too many burials within monastery walls. Today, the cemetery holds the tombs of Russian authors, musicians, playwrights, and poets, as well as famous actors, political leaders, and scientists.

More than 27,000 are buried at Novodevichy.

---