FISHING IN THE WATERS OF IMPERIAL RUSSIA’S CORDON SANITAIRE IN THE DANUBE DELTA (1812-1856)
Études balkaniques (Sofia) 2025, N 3, pp. 614 – 637, DOI: https://doi.org/10.62761/645.EB.LXI3.04
Andrei EMILCIUC 
Moldova State University, Moldova
Abstract: This paper aims to determine to what extent the cordon sanitaire established by the Russian Empire along the Chilia branch in 1813 and its transfer in 1836 to the Sulina branch affected fishing in the Danube Delta. Based on unpublished documentary sources, the article provides relevant and detailed information about the restrictions imposed by the Russian authorities on fishermen during the period 1812–1856. This study shows that there were two distinct periods in this regard, delimited by the transfer of the cordon sanitaire from the Chilia branch to Sulina in 1836. The transfer, at the same time, of the islands of Letea and Ceatal to a “practical” status had a beneficial role on the development of fishing in the Danube Delta. Sanitary restrictions gradually gave way to those imposed by leaseholders, who initially acquired from the state the right to levy tithes on fishing, and later a monopoly of fishing in Danube waters.
Keywords: Danube Delta, Russian Empire, fishing, cordon sanitaire, sanitary pickets, concessions, fish enterprises