Pskov

Oblast (region) in the northwest Russian Federation; area 55,300 sq km/21,351 sq mi; population (1996) 832,000 (65% urban). There are engineering and metalworking industries; flax is grown, and there is dairy farming.

The region is located on the eastern shores of Lakes Peipus and Pskov, on the border with Estonia. It is mainly low-lying, with a mild continental climate. About 30% of the area is covered with mixed forests; there are also extensive peat bogs. Cities include Pskov and Velikiye-Luki.

During the 11th-14th centuries, Pskov was part of the Novgorod Republic. It became independent in 1348 and was absorbed by Muscovy in 1510.