Torzhok is a town in Tver Oblast, Russia, famous for its folk craft of goldwork embroidery. It is located on the Tvertsa River, 60 km west of Tver. Population: 48,967 (2002 Census). Torzhok was first mentioned in a chronicle in 1139. The Mongols burnt it in 1238, but didn't proceed northward to Novgorod. At that time the town commanded the only route whereby grain was delivered to Novgorod. Once Torzhok blocked the route, a great shortage of grain and famine in Novgorod would follow. Consequentl… (More on Torzhok)