The description of cytoarchitectonics and topography of the three principle cortical zones of the forebrain of Emys orbicularis reveals that the cortical structures in the species are precisely distinguished with respect to their neuronal characteristics, density and the situation of cellular elements. Emys orbicularis occupies an intermediate position among the species of the order Chelonia described in the literature as regards the level of development of the forebrain cellular structures. Emys orbicularis is less progressive in respect to the structure of telencephalic cortical formations than Testudo carolina and has a number of progressive properties as compared with Testudo geometrica. Testudo graeca seems to be close to Emys orbicularis in the development of forebrain cellular structures.