Pogoreloye Gorodishche

Pogoreloye hillfort lies in Smolensky District, a few kilometres from the regional capital on the Dnieper's high right bank. Early medieval site with ramparts, ditches and settlement traces. Less famous than Gnezdovo but conveys the scale of ancient Smolensk land: hills, meadows, river and opposite bank views. Sporadic excavations; partly protected. Open-landscape visit: trails may be unmarked; follow ramparts and any information boards. Combine with Gnezdovo and Smolensk kremlin — three layers of regional antiquity in one or two days. Steep slopes to the river — sturdy shoes. Tall grass and mosquitoes in summer; mud after rain in autumn. Do not dig or collect finds — protected territory. Panorama best in clear weather.