Lipetsk

Capital, and economic and cultural centre of Lipetsk oblast (region), western Russian Federation; population (1996 est) 476,000. The city lies 100 km/62 mi north of Voronezh, and is situated on the Voronezh River in the Don basin. Its iron and steel industry has existed since the 17th century, but expanded greatly following exploitation of the iron-ore deposits in the nearby Kursk Magnetic Anomaly. Manufacturing industry includes the production of tractors and chemicals. Lipetsk is also a health resort, with mud spas (established in 1805).

Lipetsk was first documented in the 13th century. It was the capital of Lipetsk principality until destroyed by the Tatars in 1284. The city was refounded in 1707 by Peter (I) the Great as an iron-working centre.

Lipetsk

Oblast (region) of the western Russian Federation; area 24,100 sq km/9,305 sq mi; population (1996) 1,250,000 (63% urban). The capital is Lipetskm and Yelets is another town. The region is situated south of Moscow, with its western part on the central Russian upland and its eastern part in the basin of the upper reaches of the Don. It is located in the black earth (chernozem) belt, and contains major iron-ore deposits. Industries include iron and steel manufacture, chemicals (especially silicones), engineering, and food processing. Grains and potatoes are grown, and cattle and pig breeding is widespread.