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Profile of Russia

By Kerry Kubilius, About.com

Kremlin in Moscow, Russia

Kremlin in Moscow, Russia

Yaroslav Ushakov
About Russia: The largest of all the Eastern European countries, Russia lives up to its grand historical reputation. Everywhere are remnants of this country’s past—either in the Eastern Orthodox churches, the monuments to poets and tsars, or even the Soviet-style apartment buildings. Russia doesn’t let itself forget its past, nor does it let the visitor ignore it. This is, in part, what makes Russia so attractive for travelers. Embrace it.
Facts about Russia:
  • Covering 17,075,200 square kilometers, Russia is subject to a variety of climates and boasts all types of terrain.
  • Bordered by 14 countries, Russia has numerous ethnic populations thatinfluence regions culturally.
  • Prevailing religions include Russian Orthodox and Muslim, but Russia also has its fair share of other religions as well as Atheism.[/li
Siberian Russia: As vast as its wilderness is, the cities of Siberia can get swallowed up and forgotten in the kilometers of steppe and taiga. But if you want a break from the glittering Russia of the West, you need to cross the Urals and visit various locations to the East. Lake Baikal is beautiful, though distant from larger cities, like Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, and Tomsk.
Russia's Famous St. Basil’s Cathedral: This symbol of Russia hasn’t always been open for tourists. Almost completely renovated on the inside, you can walk the same grooved pathways taken by monks over the centuries. The gorgeous fresco work is unique from chapel to chapel. You can walk St. Basil’s in a circle, and it isn’t difficult to find yourself going around and around as you try to take in every detail.
The Armory Museum of Russia: The Armory Museum in the Kremlin holds amazing treasures from Russia’s Royal past. Inside, you will see the crowns of tsars, gem-encrusted dishes, Faberge eggs, gilt carriages, and more. You may do more “oohing” and “ahhing” than you’ve done in your life. The Armory Museum seems less a reflection of past eras in history than it does a collection of items from favorite fairy tales.
The Summer Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia: In St. Petersburg, you can visit various palaces, but the Summer Palace is certainly one you shouldn’t miss. Tour the interior, and you can walk along parquet floors, learn about Catherine the Great, look at (but don’t touch!) actual items used by some of the most intriguing Russian royals.
More About Russia:
Moscow Must-See Sights: 10 things you can't miss during your stay in this amazing city!
Tomsk: The Hidden Russia: Siberia has much to offer for the traveler who's willing to go a little farther.
Vyborg, Russia: Take a daytrip from St. Petersburg to this city uniquely important to military history.
Train Travel in Russia: The trains in Russia are the best way to travel between cities.

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