Хитровка. Злачный район Москвы. Прогулка по Хитровке с Ириной Борзовой.

Exploring Hitorovka: A Historical Walk Through Moscow

Introduction to Hitorovka

• Ирина Борзова introduces herself and the channel, inviting viewers to explore the historical significance of Hitorovka Square in Moscow.

• She encourages viewers to like and subscribe for future content.

The Atmosphere of Hitorovka

• Describes Hitorovka as a quiet, cozy historical center with benches and informational boards detailing the area's history.

• Notes that in the late 19th century, there were no streetlights, as it was considered unsafe for outsiders.

Origins of Hitorovka Market

• Discusses Nikolai Zakharovich Khitrov's initiative to create a market by purchasing land near his home.

• Initially intended for local farmers to sell fresh produce, the market quickly attracted marginalized individuals leading to its decline.

Reputation and Social Issues

• Highlights how Hitorovka gained notoriety as a hub for criminals and low-income individuals, with around 11,000 residents living in dire conditions.

• Mentions "rakis," a term used for the lowest social class residing in night shelters who engaged in petty crime.

Life on Hitorovka

• Explains how "rakis" lived isolated lives within their shelters, often involved in illegal activities such as selling stolen goods.

• Discusses professional beggars who would rent infants from mothers unable to care for them to increase their earnings through sympathy.

Medical Care at Hitorovka

• Introduces Dr. Kuvshinnikov, who chose to provide medical care for the impoverished rather than wealthy aristocrats.

• Shares anecdotes about Dr. Kuvshinnikov’s wife being an artist influenced by famous contemporaries like Levitan.

Cultural References and Artistic Connections

• Suggests reading Chekhov's story "The Jumping Girl" for insights into Dr. Kuvshinnikov's life and work.

Criminal Elements of Society

• Describes "cats" (convicts marked with tattoos), who lived alongside locals known as "marukhi," indicating a cycle of crime among youth raised in this environment.

Notorious Establishments

• Details three notorious taverns where marginalized people gathered; one named “Katorga” was exclusive to convicts and criminals.

Architectural Insights

• Discusses recent restorations revealing ancient structures beneath modern facades on Hitorovka Square.

Modern-Day Reflections

• Contrasts past conditions with current developments showing how much has changed over time while retaining some historical elements.

Film Connections

• Mentions that scenes from the film “Brother 2” were shot here, highlighting its cultural relevance today.

Gentrification vs. History

• Observes that despite being close to affluent areas like the Kremlin, parts of Hitorovka retain an old-world charm reminiscent of rural Russia.

Community Changes Over Time

• Reflect on how police raids led residents to develop escape routes through underground passages during crackdowns on criminal activity.

Conclusion: The Evolution of Hitorovka

• Concludes by noting that while once a haven for outcasts and criminals, today’s Hitorovka is becoming more integrated into modern Moscow society while still preserving its rich history.