Shlisselburg, a small town in Russia’s Leningrad Oblast, sits at the point where the Neva River flows out of Lake Ladoga. Its history is intertwined with its strategic geographical location, making the town and its fortress, the Oreshek Fortress, key players in Russian history. A map of Shlisselburg reveals much more than just streets and buildings; it speaks to its historical significance, its economic lifeblood, and its importance as a tourist destination. Examining a map, the dominant feature is undoubtedly the **Oreshek Fortress**, prominently positioned on Orekhovets Island. Its irregular shape, dictated by the contours of the island, immediately draws the eye. The map will depict its thick stone walls, bastions bearing names like “King’s Tower” and “Flag Tower,” and internal buildings. These were prisons, barracks, and storage areas. A crucial point marked on the map would be the landing points for ferries and small boats, as the fortress is accessible only by water. Historically, the island’s defensive advantage is clear: controlling access to and from Lake Ladoga. The **Neva River** itself is a defining element on any map of Shlisselburg. The riverbanks, marked by the town’s wharves and riverfront infrastructure, highlight its role in transportation and commerce. The map illustrates how the river divides the town and dictates its layout. Bridges, or the absence of them historically, further demonstrate the town’s relationship with the waterway. The historical importance of the Ladoga Canal, bypassing the treacherous currents of Lake Ladoga, would also be visible, indicating Shlisselburg’s vital role in connecting inland Russia to the Baltic Sea. Moving onto the mainland part of Shlisselburg, the map will show a grid-like street pattern reflecting the town’s historical planning. Key buildings like the **Cathedral of the Annunciation**, a prominent landmark, and the **Church of St. Nicholas**, would be easily identifiable. Their locations reveal the importance of religion in the town’s life. The former is of particular importance, having served as the burial place for members of the Romanov family and later a place of remembrance for victims of the Siege of Leningrad. Beyond the historical landmarks, the map also reflects the town’s contemporary function. Areas marked as residential, commercial, and industrial offer clues to the economic activities of Shlisselburg. Shipyards and related industries located along the riverbanks point to the ongoing importance of shipbuilding and maritime commerce. Tourist facilities, such as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, clustered around the riverfront and near the ferry landing, are indicators of the town’s growing tourism sector. Finally, the map will show the road network connecting Shlisselburg to other towns and cities in the region, especially to St. Petersburg. This connection underscores the town’s accessibility and its role as a popular day trip destination for visitors interested in its rich history. The modern infrastructure contrasts with the historical elements, reflecting the evolution of Shlisselburg from a strategic military outpost to a significant tourist and transportation hub. The careful examination of a map allows a deeper understanding of Shlisselburg’s past, present, and its enduring connection to the Neva River and Lake Ladoga.