Smolians

Smolians are a group of people who are native to the Smolensk region of Russia. The term "Smolians" is derived from the name of the region, which is itself named after the Smolensk River. The Smolensk region is located in the western part of Russia, bordering Belarus and Ukraine. The region has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. The area was later inhabited by various Slavic tribes, and it became a part of the Kievan Rus' in the 9th century. In the 13th century, the region was incorporated into the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and later into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. After the partitions of Poland, the Smolensk region became part of the Russian Empire. During World War II, the region was the site of heavy fighting between the German and Soviet armies. Today, Smolians are known for their traditional crafts, such as woodcarving and lace-making, as well as their unique cuisine, which includes dishes like blinis and borscht. The region is also home to several historical and cultural sites, including the Smolensk Kremlin and the Smolensk Cathedral.