The country

An Old Russian state emerged in the 9th century. Russia is a country of richest history and culture. The most different religious and cultural traditions of numerous nationalities living there have coexisted from time immemorial.

On our day's the Russian Federation is the largest country on earth in the Eastern part of Europe and Northern part of Asia Area: 17075 million sq.km. Population: 146 million people, Russian – 81%, Tatar – 3.8%, Ukrainian – 3%. Capital: Moscow – about 10 million people.

Russia Political system: the Democratic Federal State with Republican political system.

A visit to Russia today is an encounter with a new undiscovered land.

With the dissolution of the Soviet Union visitors have a fresh opportunity to explore a vast array of exciting and ancient cultures, from the glittering imperial Russia of St. Petersburg to the timeless village life of Siberia and Irkutsk. One of the most notable features of present day Russia is a renewed celebration of the wealth of its past and its potential for the future. Russia today is a nation of enormous diversity and tremendous vitality. It is as if the cultural traditions of a century ago have re-awakened with a newfound strength – ancient cathedrals are being rebuilt and restored, colorful markets hum with activity once again and literature and the arts are quickly regaining the creative renown they enjoyed decades ago. A new Russia is now in full bloom.

For most westerners, Russia is associated with its European cities – Moscow and St. Petersburg. This is the heartland of Imperial Russia, and these great and ancient cities often become the focus for most tourists. However there is much more to Russia, a country that spans eleven time zones and two continents, ending less than 50 miles from North America. Within this vast expanse lie Baikal Lake – the largest freshwater lake in the world, rivers and forests teeming with fish and wildlife, smoking volcanoes, and huge towering mountains.

Russia is the country with enormous tracts of land that have been opened to travelers only in the last few years. But each inquisitive traveler, be they a Russian or foreigner, is just happy to discover some new corners and to receive some unforgettable and fascinating impressions.

Just as Russia's rich cultural heritage has once more come to life, its natural heritage too is a new country waiting to be discovered.

We welcome you to learn better our country – great Russia.