The city of Chernobyl.

The city of Chernobyl, or Chornobyl as it is known locally, is situated about 14km south of the CNPP. The plant is actually named after the city, which has been settled since the 1100s, and prior to the accident housed around 14,000 people. Today the city is home to around 400 who work within the zone: scientists, military, guards and zone administration personnel (chernobylinterinform). The latter are those who take visitors on guided tours and keep a watchful eye on everything that goes on in the zone.

Like Pripyat, the whole city was washed down after the accident, on top of this, top layers of soil were removed and all water piping systems were moved above ground. Despite these efforts, there are still areas of contamination in Chernobyl, but they are well documented and known. Workers here respect these risks and are only allowed to work two weeks on and two weeks off to minimize extended exposure. There are also some who have moved back full-time since the accident -- they live in their houses with signs outside reading, "Owner of This House Lives Here."

Tribute to those that saved the world.

Above is the monument that stands in Chernobyl city in memory of all the firefighters and liquidators who lost their lives in the aftermath of the explosion. Many are still alive but suffering with illnesses and disabilities related to their heavy radiation exposure both on the night of the accident and in the weeks and months during clean up. This fitting tribute was actually built by current firefighters of Chernobyl city and it stands in front of their station, which you can just make out on the left of this picture.

Ship graveyard located in Chernobyl city.

Liquidator vehicle monument in Chernobyl city.

The 'Chernobyl Hotel' at the Chernobylinterinform.