Leo Tolstoy spent his last days at Astapovo Station, where his illness led to poignant interactions with his wife and a somber farewell. The railway station has a role in history and Tolstoy's lasting legacy
Astapovo – a small railway station nestled in the Lipetsk Region carries a significant name – Tolstoy. The year 1910 marked a moment of collective attention as all eyes turned to Astapovo. On November 13, a few days after leaving his home, Leo Tolstoy, seriously ill, found refuge in a room within the stationmaster's house. Despite its modest accommodations, it provided the most comfort during his final days.
Tolstoy's deteriorating health condition held the nation's concern. It even captured the attention of high-ranking officials in the capital of St. Petersburg. Orders were issued to local authorities, including police and station staff, to provide regular updates on the writer's health.
As Tolstoy battled his illness, his assistant Chertkov was among the first to visit. However, Tolstoy’s relationship with his wife, Sofya, took a complex turn. Tolstoy expressed a strong desire to avoid seeing her and even exhibited fear at her arrival.
Despite his wishes, Sofya did eventually go to him. Yet, according to accounts, a collective decision was made by doctors and their children to withhold her presence from Tolstoy, shielding him from the knowledge of her arrival. Only hours before his passing and in his unconscious state, she was finally permitted to see him.
Tolstoy's final journey from this world was met with a significant outpouring of grief. People congregated at his Yasnaya Polyana estate to bid farewell to the literary giant. The ceremony honored Tolstoy's wishes, devoid of Orthodox religious undertones, aligning instead with secular principles. His resting place, in line with his desire for simplicity, lacks a cross or traditional memorial. Visitors can still pay their respects at the unassuming earthen mound that cradles his legacy.
Astapovo Station continues to stand as a quiet witness to the closing chapter of Tolstoy's life. The legacy of Leo Tolstoy lives on not only in his words but also in the moments that marked his final days.