ivan the terrible

The history of Moscow was one of extreme violence from the start

21 March 2026 9:00 am

The Mongol massacres of 1238 were followed by reigns of terror, plague, fire, revolution and purges – as well as constant hostility to Kyiv

Distrust and resentment have plagued Anglo-Russian relations for centuries

22 June 2024 9:00 am

On a visit to England in 1556, Ivan the Terrible’s envoy alienated Londoners with his extreme suspicions – and lurid insults have been exchanged ever since

Tsar quality

3 July 2021 9:00 am

There are worse inconveniences than having to wear a face mask to the opera. But there’s one consequence that hadn’t…