A collectible 1978 postcard depicting sailing yachts in the Azov Sea off the coast of Mariupol (known as Zhdanov from 1948 to 1989).
What is shown on the postcard
The foreground features two single-handed sailing dinghies under white sails, steered by yachtsmen. One of the sails displays the number “110” and a class emblem. In the background, a rowing boat with two people, a green shoreline with trees, a modernist water sports station building, and the distant silhouettes of Mariupol’s industrial plants on the right are visible.
Historical note
During the Soviet era, sailing was actively developed in Zhdanov (Mariupol). Major industrial enterprises of the city, such as the Azovstal Iron and Steel Works and the Ilyich Steel Society, operated their own yacht clubs and water stations. Regular training sessions and sailing regattas of various levels, from local to all-Union championships, took place on the Sea of Azov coast.
Present day
Today, the sports infrastructure of the Mariupol coast has undergone severe changes. While the traditions of sailing on the Sea of Azov remain part of the city’s history, many historical bases and vessels have been damaged during hostilities or require extensive reconstruction.
Questions and answers
- What objects are visible in the background of the postcard? The background shows a green shoreline, a rowing boat, a water sports station building, and the silhouettes of industrial plants.
- What was the official name of Mariupol when the postcard was published? In 1978, the city was officially named Zhdanov (a name it held from 1948 to 1989).
- Under which organizations did sailing clubs operate in Soviet Mariupol? Sailing clubs operated under the city’s major industrial enterprises, specifically the Azovstal Iron and Steel Works and the Ilyich Steel Society.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Mariupol from 1978.
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