The capital of Russia, as well as its largest city, Moscow is located in the country’s far western region. It derives its name from the Moskva River, on whose banks it is situated. With chilly winters and warm summers, Moscow is a city of contrasts. A perfect blend of the old and modern, it comprises ancient cathedrals, old museums, and structures like the iconic 16th-century St Basil’s Cathedral and The Kremlin that was built in the 15th century. These are complemented by high-rise buildings that exemplify the modern infrastructure.
The fortified Kremlin is the center of political authority in Russia, as it serves as the official residence of the country’s President. Adjoining it, is the city’s hub, the Red Square. In & around this central marketplace lie ancient monuments and churches, such as, the St Basil’s Cathedral, and the more-recent structures, like the GUM (Russia’s largest department store).
Moscow's Gorky Park remains a popular place for the locals to gather during festivals and carnivals that are held during the summer months. The world-renowned Bolshoi Theater is the place to go to enjoy opera and ballet performances.
Founded in 1703, as Russia’s 'Window on Europe', this former national capital is located in the extreme northwestern part of the country. An important port, it is also Russia’s second-largest city. The summers are short, warm, and humid, due to proximity to the Baltic Sea; while the winters of St. Petersburg are long, cold, and wet.
Known as the 'CC capital of Russia', St. Petersburg is characterized by numerous theaters, opera houses, museums, and palaces. Forging its path through different parts of the city, and flowing under bridges with beautiful carvings, are tributaries and canals of the river Neva.
Among the numerous landmarks, are the citadel of the city, the Peter and Paul Fortress. Historically significant because it was the first structure to be built in the city, it has served as a military base, housed government officials, and was even used as a prison. Today, one can find the renowned St. Petersburg Museum of History within its confines.
Undoubtedly, the city's most famous building, the Winter Palace has been the imperial residence of various Russian rulers since the early 18th century. Located in front of the Winter Palace is the Palace Square, which is known for the grand parades the troops perform to mark important occasions of the country. The State Rooms of the Palace are now part of the State Hermitage Museum. The Museum, housing over 3 million works of art and cultural artefacts, is the second-largest art museum in the world (second only to the Louvre).
The city's rich culture is also evident in the performing art avenues present throughout St Petersburg. The Mariinsky Theater remains the primary center for orchestra, opera, and ballet performances in the city. Known for nurturing the traditions of Russia’s first musical theater, the Mariinsky is globally renowned for its production of The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, and Swan Lake.
In extreme southeastern Russia lies this port city, connected to the Sea of Japan through the Zolotoy Rog (Golden Horn Bay) and Amur Bay. With the sea at one end, Vladivostok (literally, 'Lord of the East') is the largest city in the Far East region of the country. It is known for its diverse terrain—ranging from the bays to Mount Kholodilnik (the city’s highest peak) and Eagle’s Nest Hill, which provides a scenic view of the entire city.
Vladivostok is the primary educational & cultural hub of the Russian Far East. It houses the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences; and offers a wide range of educational opportunities to both native and international students. These include, among others, the Far Eastern State Academy of Arts and the Vladivostok State Medical University (now known as the Pacific State Medical University).
The city's Central Square is also its cultural hub; and is often referred to by the name of the sculpture located at the square, namely, The Fighters for Soviet Power in the Far East. The imposing Vladivostok Fortress stands erect in the city; and now comprises a museum that captures the rich history associated with the structure.
The capital and largest city of the Republic of Tatarstan, Kazan is located in western Russia, at the confluence of the Volga river and one of its tributaries, Kazanka. Fusion is a characteristic of the city’s culture, as well, due to the Tatar ethnic group’s relation with the Ottoman Empire. This blend has also influenced the city’s architecture, as can be seen in its monuments, such as, the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral (famous for its unique décor & vivid colors), the Söyembikä Tower (Russia’s own leaning tower), the Kul Sharif mosque (one of the largest mosques in Europe), and the Kazan Kremlin (the only existing Tatar fortress in Russia). The city has also played host to various international events, such as the WorldSkills Championship 2019, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and various other European Championships.