Second half of the 19th century. After the defeat in the Crimean War, Russia did not give up hope of regaining its lost influence in the Balkans. The main headquarters of the imperial army developed vigorous activity in deep and detailed strategic reconnaissance of the upcoming theater of military operations. The main role in this difficult task was assigned to the military topographic department of the General Staff, headed by Colonel Nikolai Dmitrievich Artamonov. His brave students made their way deep into the territories captured by the Porte, bringing invaluable information about the number and location of Turkish garrisons and plans for the enemy’s fortifications...