by Rowena Kang
Russia is a massive country with a rich history dating back thousands of years. As a result, there are many historical sites to visit across Russia that piece together dozens of centuries of history, resulting in the vivid tapestry of the Russian culture. Planning a trip to such a large country can be daunting, yet with an idea of what sites are of top importance in Russian history, you can have a gratifying and enlightening trip.
Moscow
The capital and largest city of the country, this bustling metropolis has a bevy of historical sites to visit. The Red Square is one of the most well-known historical site in the country, having played part in many political revolutions, particularly Communist demonstrations. The Red Square is pretty much at the center of Moscow, and is flanked by St. Basil's Cathedral, another great cultural treasure. The architecture of the cathedral, with its onion-dome topped spires and colorful facades, is a prime example of Russian style. It was built in the 16th century, and has nine chapels within its great walls. The Kremlin, another infamous Moscow site, offers history buffs a glimpse at more modern Russian history.
St. Petersburg
Formerly known as Leningrad, this major town is Russia's second largest. It dates back to its founding in 1703, spurred by Czar Peter the Great. This city has many vast historic sites ranging across the ages. The Hermitage is one of the largest art museums in the world, having a collection of over three million items. The Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments is categorized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is designated as the historic and cultural core of the city. The Mariinsky Theatre, formerly known as the Kirov, is evidence of Russia's opulent past. There, you can see splendidly rich ballet and opera shows.
Yekaterinburg
Founded in 1743, Yekaterinburg is the fourth largest city in Russia, located in Sverdlovsk Oblast. This city is perhaps best known as the location of where the last Czar, Nicholas II, and his family, were murdered in 1918. The Cathedral on the Blood is built on the place where the last royal family (the Romanovs) were exterminated by order of Lenin and the Ural Soviets to prevent them from being strategically used to muster the opposing White forces during the ongoing Russian Civil War. The Czar's remains were given a state funeral in 1998.
Veliky Novgorod
Veliky Novgorod - one of the most important historic cities in Russia, located between Moscow and St. Petersburg along the - M10 highway. It was founded in the 9th or 10th century, making it one of the oldest cities in the country, and was started as a stopover on the Baltic-Byzantium trade route. No other city in Russia can compete with the age of its medieval monuments. The St. Sophia Cathedral, built around 1045, is one of the best preserved churches from that era. There are dozens of other medieval aged churches and cathedrals scattered around the city, each with its own unique history. The Novogrod Kremlin contains the oldest Russian palace, bell tower, and clock tower.
About the Author Rowena Kang is a writer and the Outreach Director for the Morgan Law Firm, a firm that represents clients going through a divorce in Austin divorce firm. See additional articles on the firm's Austin Divorce Blog.
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