Kaliningrad History
Kaliningrad was originally a Prussian city and the site of a Teutonic Knights' fort called Königsberg, which became the city's name. Kaliningrad's associate with Russia began during WWII when it was mercilessly bombed and its historic center heavily damaged. The remaining residents or soldiers were sent to Siberia or Germany, and Königsberg became a Russian city and was named for Mikhail Kalinin, a high-ranking Soviet official, in 1946.Kaliningrad Sights
Though so much of the old Königsberg was destroyed, many of Kaliningrad's sights have been reconstructed, including the 14th century Gothic cathedral made of red brick. Other sights include old city gates, the House of Soviets.With its proximity to the Baltic Sea, Kaliningrad is an appropriate location for an amber museum.
Kaliningrad Points of Interest
- Kaliningrad brews beer (Ostmark) and distils vodka (Stari Konigsburg).
- Some restaurants in Kaliningrad serve former Prussian specialties.
- Because of its association with the Baltic Sea, and because its port does not ice over, Kaliningrad is an important Russian naval base.
- Emmanuel Kant's tomb can be found in Kaliningrad
Visas for Kaliningrad
Even though Kaliningrad is separated from Russia, visas are still required for travel there. However, residents of Schengen zone member countries, the UK, and Japan are eligible for 72-hour visas.Hotels in Kaliningrad
Kaliningrad has both small and large hotels that serve business travelers and tourists alike.- Hotels in Kaliningrad:Compare Prices
Getting to Kaliningrad
Kaliningrad is serviced by Khrabravo airport.- Flights to Kaliningrad:Compare Prices
A bus service also runs from Gdansk, Poland.
