Aurora is the first ship of the Russian Navy, which has participated in three wars and two revolutions throughout its long history. This legendary cruiser became not only a symbol of the revolution but also an embodiment of the heroism and courage of sailors and officers.

History of the Cruiser Aurora

The ship was laid down at the "New Admiralty" shipyard on May 23, 1897, based on a design by Konstantin Mikhailovich Tokarevsky. Significant funds were spent on its construction, and the best craftsmen were invited. The steel for the hull was produced at the Alexandrovsky and Izhora plants, while the armor, developed by engineer Ivan Kondratievich Nazvanov, had high plastic properties, preventing cracking upon shell impact. To reduce weight, a turtleback deck was used, which was intended to ricochet shells. The hull consisted of 14 watertight compartments with an autonomous water pumping system. The power system included three steam engines with a total power of 11,610 horsepower, manufactured at the Franco-Russian plant. The cruiser was equipped with an electrified lighting system and a wireless telegraph.

History of the Name of the Cruiser Aurora

The cruiser was laid down in 1897 and launched on May 11, 1900, in the presence of the imperial family. Nicholas II chose the name "Aurora" from the proposed options. The name is not related to the goddess of dawn but to the frigate "Aurora," which served from 1835 to 1861. In 1853, the frigate embarked on a round-the-world voyage, and in 1854, it participated in the defense of Petropavlovsk against the Anglo-French squadron.

Life After the Construction of the Cruiser Aurora

After being launched in 1900, the cruiser was completed in the water and was commissioned in 1903. Its first combat baptism occurred in the Battle of Tsushima on May 17, 1905. In 1916, "Aurora" underwent major repairs in Petrograd after participating in World War I.

October Revolution and the Shot of the Cruiser Aurora

By the end of October 1917, the cruiser’s repairs were nearly complete. On October 25, 1917, a historic blank shot was fired, signaling the beginning of a new era. In 1918, the cruiser was placed in the reserve of the navy, and its armament was updated.

Cruiser Aurora During the War Years

At the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, "Aurora" was in Oranienbaum and participated in the air defense system. During the war, the cruiser’s armament was removed for use at the front. In 1941, the ship was subjected to attacks by German aviation and artillery, leading to significant damage. In 1944, the cruiser was raised and sent for repairs, and since 1948, it has been permanently moored in Saint Petersburg.

Repairs of the Cruiser Aurora in the 21st Century

In 2014, "Aurora" was towed to Kronstadt for repairs and returned to its mooring place in 2016. The repairs did not affect the ship's structure, but the life support systems and exterior were updated. A new museum exhibition dedicated to the cruiser’s participation in three wars was created on board.

Deck and Features of the Cruiser Aurora

The deck of "Aurora" is made of teak wood, which does not rot and is non-slip. During the repairs, only 20% of the wood was replaced. Traditions prohibiting hustle and noise are observed on the deck.

Museum, Branch of the Central Naval Museum

Since 1948, "Aurora" has been standing on the Great Neva, and since 1957, a museum has been established on board, which has become a branch of the Central Naval Museum. In 1960, the cruiser was designated a protected monument, and in 1968, it was awarded the Order of the October Revolution. The museum exhibition includes engine rooms, a radio station, and personal belongings of the crew.