IV. Find in the text the lines that show the uniqueness of Astrakhan region

For example: Astrakhan is famous for its fisheries.

V. Read the text “Astrakhan’s history” and answer the questions

Astrakhan’s history

The history of Astrakhan dates back to the 13^th century when a small settlement appeared on the banks of the river Volga. Astrakhan was founded in 1558 but it doesn’t mean there were no towns on the territory of modern Astrakhan region. Since old times there have been different settlements of nomadic tribes. There was a state of Khazars, with the capital Itil. At about 140 km from modern Astrakhan there was an ancient capital of the Golden Hords – Sarai-batu – that of the great and powerful empire of tatar-mongols. Great battles were on this territory among Slavs, Pechenegs, Khazars and Polovets.

The history of the present Astrakhan began only in the 16^th century. And it is closely connected with the history of the Kremlin. It was built in 1552 and this data is considered to the beginning of Astrakhan’s history, which is very rich.

The left bank of the river was chosen for the Kremlin and the center of the town because it was the most suitable place for the fortress where Astrakhan was at that time.