diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a18cb6e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,45 @@
+# Zhurnal - Changelog Generator
+
+## Overview
+Zhurnal is a web application designed to generate and manage changelogs for Git repositories. It supports both public and self-hosted platforms like Gitea and GitLab, including authenticated repositories using URL credentials.
+
+## Features
+- Generate changelogs from repository URLs (http://, https://).
+- Supports authenticated repositories (e.g., `https://user:pass@domain/repo`).
+- Updates existing repositories and tracks new commits.
+- Real-time progress updates via WebSocket.
+- Download changelogs in JSON or Markdown formats.
+- Night/day theme toggle.
+- Mobile and desktop compatible (min 320px width).
+- Hourly automatic repository updates.
+- Log rotation and system log access.
+
+## Installation
+1. Clone the repository:
+   ```
+   git clone https://your-repo-url.git
+   cd zhurnal
+   ```
+2. Install dependencies (ensure Python and FastAPI are installed).
+3. Run the application:
+   ```
+   python main.py
+   ```
+
+## Usage
+1. Open `http://localhost:8000` in your browser.
+2. Enter a repository URL in the input field.
+3. View real-time updates and access the generated changelog.
+
+## Configuration
+- Repositories are stored in `/repos/[hash-of-url]/`.
+- Database: `zhurnal.db` using AsyncDataSet.
+- Logs: `logs/app.log` with rotation (app.log.1 to app.log.5).
+
+## Development
+- Backend: `main.py` (FastAPI, AsyncDataSet).
+- Frontend: `index.html` (self-contained).
+- Changelog Template: `changelog.html`.
+
+## License
+MIT License