What are the famous sights of these cities. The most famous landmarks in the world

Valley of Geysers in Kronotsky Nature Reserve

Travelers who ask experienced tourists questions about what to visit in Russia that will be remembered for their magical natural beauty, receive the answer: "The Valley of Geysers, located in Kamchatka"! This place is considered one of the. This volcanic canyon, two kilometers wide and four kilometers long, resembles a fantastic "city" of hundreds of geysers and hot springs. Hundreds of years ago there was a lake here, but under the influence of continuous processes taking place in the volcano, it almost completely disappeared, and in its place fountains of boiling water gushed. The Valley of Geysers was opened literally on the eve of the 1941 war. Here, near the Geysernaya River, the Giant Geyser gushes with a fountain. Tourists who come to visit these sights of Russia can watch his work by going up to a special observation deck on the right bank of the river. In a minute, the Giant throws up 30 tons of hot water, and the water column reaches the height of a nine-story building! Such a grandiose, truly fantastic show is accompanied by a powerful roar. To the west of the Giant lies the Pearl Geyser, hidden at the bottom of the well and covered with geyserite, somewhat reminiscent of natural pearls.

5. Hermitage (St. Petersburg)

Hermitage building

The Winter Palace in St. Petersburg is a real treasure of the country and the northern capital. Its construction began under Peter the Great. This historical monument, looking into the waters of the Neva as in a mirror, since 1920 has become the most majestic and famous Russian museum - the Hermitage. Its unique collection owes its birth to the Empress Catherine II herself. The royal lady placed her first acquired paintings in the North Pavilion in 1764. The random collection of paintings acquired by Catherine consisted of works by Jordaens, Hals, and Rembrandt. With this purchase, the collecting of paintings by Catherine began, which almost grew into a collecting mania. The rooms and galleries located in the Small Hermitage were filled with works of art literally in geometric progression. Soon there was simply no room for paintings. Then the Great Hermitage was built. Soon the empress acquired the library of Denis Diderot, and Diderot himself, as a token of gratitude, helped the mistress to buy paintings by the most famous masters of the brush. Today, the museum contains thousands of works by Poussin, Van Dyck, Rubens, Titian, Raphael and other geniuses who lived in Europe in different centuries. More than five million tourists visit the museum annually.

Check out the beautiful places of Russia in this wonderful video!

6. Mamaev Kurgan (Volgograd)

Sculptures "Stand to the death" and "Motherland" on Mamayev Kurgan

Mamayev Kurgan is a hill that rises not far from the Volga, has long become a memorable place associated, unfortunately, with the tragic events of the Patriotic War of 1941-1945. This monument to the memory of the heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad was opened in Volgograd in 1967. The remains of the soldiers - defenders of Stalingrad are buried on the hill. A statue of the Motherland-Mother 86 meters high was immediately installed. It can be seen even a few kilometers away by every traveler arriving in Volgograd. The sword in the hand of the statue, with a total weight of 14 tons, reaches a height of 33 meters. The weight of the entire sculpture is approaching 1,500 tons. They say that a large SUV can fit in the palm of the statue! Often, guests of the city, traveling to this sight of Russia, lay flowers at the foot of the Mamayev Kurgan and the Eternal Flame, honoring the memory of the victims of fascism. Guests of the city, pondering what to see in Russia and in Volgograd itself, should certainly admire the majestic changing of the guard ceremony that takes place on the Mamayev Kurgan every hour, starting at 9 am and ending at 19.00. In addition, travelers who book an excursion here will see weapons from the Second World War - multi-ton tanks and cannons.

7. Kazan Kremlin (Kazan)

Cathedral Mosque Kul Sharif on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin

The Kazan Kremlin is the main decoration of the capital of Tatarstan. Its Spasskaya Tower, built in 1562, is the most recognizable building of an ancient architectural structure. Its main "sign" is a watch, and they have their own history. The first clock of the Kazan Kremlin was not an ordinary mechanism for showing the time. Their dial was constantly rotating, but the hand did not move! The modern clock, by which the whole of Tatarstan now checks the time, was installed only in 1963. Exhibitions, concerts and other entertainment events are constantly held on the territory of the Kremlin in Kazan. There are also cozy cafes with national Tatar cuisine. The most recognizable building in the Kremlin is the "falling" Soyumbike tower. Tourists looking for what to see in Russia and Kazan related to the ancient history of the country will definitely pay attention to the Mausoleum of Kazan Khans. From the observation deck of the Kremlin, a stunning majestic view opens up of the modern part of the city: the registry office, new houses, the Arena, the Palace of Farmers and the embankment. Tourists wishing to take pictures in armor and shoot from a bow can do so on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin. The main decoration of the historical site is the elegant blue and white Kul Sharif Mosque, which can seat more than 2,000 people.

8. State Tretyakov Gallery (Moscow)

Monument to P.M. Tretyakov in front of the Tretyakov Gallery

The Moscow State Tretyakov Gallery, founded in 1856, is a historical heritage of Russia. The gallery's exposition is located in several buildings. More than 1,500,000 people come here annually to get acquainted with the well-known monuments of Russian art. At present, the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery covers a long historical period from representatives of Old Russian painting of the 11th century to canvases of contemporaries. Every day the gallery is visited by students, elderly people, Muscovites and tourists who come to admire the sights of Russia. Here they admire the most famous works of art created by Ivanov, Shishkin, Vasnetsov, Surikov and other famous Russian artists. These paintings are the generally accepted standard of Russian art. Everyone will find the Mikhail Vrubel Hall here without error. Its subdued lighting and dark walls create an atmosphere that sets a different perception of art. All the works of this genius and a little strange in the manner of painting of the artist breathes with mystery and fabulousness.

9. Krasnaya Polyana (Sochi)

Sunny day in Krasnaya Polyana

Krasnaya Polyana is a ski resort near Sochi (Adler). There are trails for extreme lovers, professionals, amateurs of ski slopes and for beginners. Vacationers wishing to photograph the nearby sights of Russia and Sochi can take the cable car up and take some rare shots. Of course, a greater number of tourists come to Krasnaya Polyana in the winter season, but in the summer even those who decide to go here with kids will definitely find worthy entertainment here. The same cable car, operating all year round, will appeal to both adults and their curious children, who have already managed to get tired of beach holidays and frequent sea swimming. Taking a ticket for the lift, you can climb to the highest point located in the mountains and relax in the Vysota bar, taking mulled wine for yourself, and for the child - natural juice. There is also a mountain Olympic village, built for the 2014 Olympics. Here you can stay in a hotel of any price category. In summer, the resort should definitely swim and sunbathe on the local beach while admiring the stunning views around the mountain.

10. Bolshoi Theater (Moscow)

The famous Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater

The building of the Bolshoi Theater is easily recognizable by both avid theatergoers and people who are very far from everything related to art. It seems that the four horses, decorating the grandiose architectural structure, will now soar up. It is believed that the history of this temple of Melpomene began in 1776, when Prince Urusov received permission from Empress Catherine II to open a public theater in Moscow. But the building that Urusov had built burned down before the opening, and he decided to sell the enterprise to the Englishman Michael Maddox, a mathematician from Oxford, who was invited to Russia to teach the sciences of Tsarevich Pavel Romanov. And on December 30, 1780, the theater was inaugurated. A hall for 1000 seats, a spacious stage and a large orchestra pit were built in it. The first prima ballerina of the Bolshoi was the Frenchwoman Felitsata Gyullen-Sor. In 1918, Lenin demanded that the Bolshoi be demolished immediately. He argued that opera is a bourgeois art that requires huge expenses and is not useful. Surprisingly, it was Stalin who changed Lenin's mind. In 1940, the Soviet government held a competition to give the theater a "Soviet working style". However, in 2011, the Bolshoi was restored, giving it its original historical appearance and improving its acoustics.

Sights of Russia: what else to visit in Russia

13. The architectural ensemble of Kizhi (Petrozavodsk)

Kizhi - a monument of wooden architecture

Any traveler thinking about what to visit in Russia and Karelia chooses a trip to Kizhi. You can get from Petrozavodsk to the architectural ensemble of Kizhi in an hour and a half by boat. Now it houses a museum of wooden architecture. However, it might not have existed if the Spaso-Kizhi churchyard had not appeared here in the 15th century. At that time, a graveyard was not called a cemetery, but a unit of territorial division. There were 130 villages in Kizhi then. At first, the winter and summer churches were built, which later burned down in a fire. The architectural ensemble, familiar to many today, was built only in the 18th century. Construction began with the nine-domed Church of the Intercession. Its unique iconostasis has survived to this day. The most famous landmark of Russia in Kizhi is the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord. Its 22 domes are depicted on numerous Russian souvenirs, dishes, and towels. They say that no nails were used in its construction, but this is not the case. In total, the architectural ensemble consists of two churches and a large bell tower with 33 domes, symbolizing the number of years lived by the Savior.

14. Novgorod Kremlin ( Velikiy Novgorod)

Towers of the Novgorod Kremlin

Novgorod is the oldest city in Russia, an ancient craft and trade center, a link connecting Russia with Europe. The city today invites guests to see its amazing sights. Among them is the Novgorod Kremlin or, as it was originally called, "Detinets". This stone structure on the banks of the Volkhov was built by Prince Yaroslavl in the 11th century. For the first time, the chronicles of 1044 mentioned him. But those original buildings have not survived. Later, the Kremlin was rebuilt and expanded several times. Today the length of its walls is approaching one and a half kilometers. Now the Kremlin has preserved 9 towers. The highest of them is Kokuy. Various architectural monuments are located behind the fortress walls. St. Sophia Cathedral, near which all the townspeople used to gather at the Veche, the Faceted Chamber and the Sophia Belfry, which today attract curious tourists and people interested in the history of Russian architecture and the state as a whole. The territory of the Novgorod Kremlin is a favorite vacation spot for Novgorodians and guests of the ancient city. Everything here is adapted for relaxation: cafes, playgrounds for children, carved benches. Inside the Kremlin, thematic expositions dedicated to various events in Russian history are regularly organized. From the observation deck, you can make a panoramic photo of the city.

15. Kungur cave (Kungur, Perm region)

Ice kingdom of the Kungur cave

Inveterate travelers looking for what to see in Russia the most unusual and even mystical should certainly go down to the Kungur cave. She is beautiful, and great, and truly magical. The first tourists, including the kings, came down here in the 19th century. Today this place is the most famous Ural miracle. Up to 100,000 people visit it annually. In just a few hours, moving along the cave manholes, tourists see winter, autumn and spring. But there is never a summer in a cave. The temperature here does not rise above + 5⁰ + 8⁰ C, so even the Urals themselves, who decided to admire stalactites, stalagmites and underground lakes at their leisure, often tremble here from the cold, forgetting to put on a warm jacket and a hat before going down. The most beautiful hall of the cave, mesmerizing with its snow-white brilliance, is the Diamond Grotto, named so because of its long-term icing. Even if the heat outside is + 30⁰C, snow flowers bloom on the walls of the grotto. Tourist groups are not allowed to stay here for more than five minutes. The keepers of the cave protect its microclimate and protect it from ice melting. The length of all passages of the cave reaches six kilometers, along with fifty loopholes and grottoes, each of which has its own name and an amazing history. Many halls are illuminated with colored lights and look unreal, fantastic palaces.

16. Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed (Moscow)

St. Basil's Cathedral or Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on Red Square

The status of the most recognizable sight of Moscow, in addition to the well-known Kremlin, should be assigned to the Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed - even with a passing glance, its colorful domes evoke associations with the Russian capital. The origins of the cathedral date back to the 16th century, when, by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible, a cult building was built on the site of the ancient Church of the Life-Giving Trinity. The basis for the creation of the cathedral was the idea of ​​a Heavenly Jerusalem - a tent-roofed bell tower, around which there are eight chapters, from above it resembles an eight-pointed star, similar to the one of Bethlehem. And if the facade of the cathedral impresses with its splendor and abundance of flowers, then the interior of the inner hall surprises with its simplicity of decoration. Here, in the twilight, a completely different spirit reigns - the spirit of remembrance and meek prayers. While the first floor is occupied by the main church hall, on the second tier there is an ensemble of 9 churches united by galleries.

17. Museum-reserve "Tsarskoe Selo" (Pushkin, St. Petersburg)

Catherine Park with a palace in golden autumn in the Tsarskoye Selo Museum-Reserve in St. Petersburg

The great heritage of the city of Pushkin - Museum — the Tsarskoe Selo reserve with its Catherine Palace, which is a fine example of Russian architecture. The whole complex is the most important monument of landscape gardening art of the 18-20 centuries, which was badly damaged as a result of the events of the Great Patriotic War, but was later completely restored. The museum complex consists of gardens, parks, small thematic museums and the central object - the Catherine Palace, a magnificent Baroque building in beautiful azure and white colors with an abundance of gilding elements. The splendor of the palace interior is especially evident in its Throne Room, with sparkling gilded decor and impressive artistic ceiling paintings. The richness and cozy color of the Amber Room, the combination of the snow-white walls and gold of the State Suite, the grandeur and spaciousness of the Hermitage pavilion are impressive.

18. Golden Ring of Russia (cities of North-Eastern Russia)

Picturesque panoramic view of Suzdal - part of the Golden Ring of Russia
Wooden Church of the Savior in the Kostroma Museum of Wooden Architecture of the Golden Ring of Russia

The famous tourist route, which turned 50 in 2017, has already become a classic of tourism in Russia. It leads through the oldest Russian cities, where every historical place, every museum and cathedral preserves its own centuries-old history. All the moments of the formation of ancient Russian architecture open up in the process of traveling through eight old Russian cities, located on the map so that if you connect them with a single line, it looks like a closed ring - hence the name of the route. Majestic white-stone churches of the 12-13 centuries, medieval tent buildings, the creations of famous architectural schools, interesting exhibits of ancient museums, where woodcarving, products of talented jewelers and lacemakers, enamel painting, lacquer miniatures and much, much more will allow you to see with your own eyes a rich tour "The Golden Ring of Russia".

19. Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin (Nizhny Novgorod)

Chkalovskaya Stairs and St George Tower of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin in Nizhny Novgorod

On the territory of the confluence of the great Russian rivers, the Volga and the Oka, a brick fortress rises majestically - a fortification of the 16th century. The origins of the appearance of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin arose back in the distant 13th century, when the Russian prince founded a city here and surrounded it with fortifications. And only 3 centuries later, an important fortification post of red brick and white limestone was erected. The total length of the Kremlin walls is about 2 km, these walls have 13 battle towers, and the Dmitrievskaya tower, which has become one of the symbols of Nizhny Novgorod, plays the role of the main gate. The second important tower is located in the southeastern end - this is the Georgievskaya tower, next to which is the Minin and Pozharsky square with the Chkalov monument, as well as an observation deck from which a huge 560-step Chkalovskaya staircase leads down.

20. Church of the Intercession on the Nerl (1.5 km from Bogolyubov)

White-stone Church of the Intercession on the Nerl on the territory of Bogolyubovsky meadow, 1.5 km from the village of Bogolyubovo

Another of the monuments of ancient Russian architecture is located in the Russian outback, one and a half kilometers from the village of Bogolyubovo. On a clear day, against the background of the blue sky, the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is especially beautiful - the meek beauty of its façade, the combination of the piercing blue of the domes with its snow-white walls, is impressive. The church, which has become one of the symbols of Russia, was built in the 12th century in just one summer, not far from the residence of Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky. It was consecrated in memory of the events that took place in Constantinople in the 10th century during the siege of the city by the Saracens. There is a belief that the inhabitants of the city gathered in those difficult times in churches and prayed for the salvation of the city, and St. , stretched it out over all people and granted salvation.

The cruiser Aurora is a legendary warship moored at the embankment in St. Petersburg

Mentioning the sights of St. Petersburg , it is impossible not to mention one of the most emblematic monuments of the northern capital - the cruiser Aurora. The armored cruiser, created to strengthen the navy in the process of geopolitical rivalry with England, was named in honor of the ancient Roman goddess of the morning dawn. It was built at the very end of the 19th century and survived a number of significant events of the 20th century: it participated in the battles of the Japanese, World War I, was involved in the storming of the Winter Palace and during the defense of Kronstadt. The vessel was regularly subjected to enemy artillery fire, but it has survived to this day. Today, on board the cruiser, there is a museum dedicated to the ship's participation in significant historical events, as well as a ship temple, restored in the post-Soviet period.

22. Manpupuner (Komi Republic)

Manpupuner or Weathering Pillars on the territory of the Pechora-Ilychsky Nature Reserve in the Komi Republic

Amazing natural formations in the form of weathered pillars can be seen in the Troitsko-Pechora region of Komi. The unusual name of these creations - Manpupuner - translated from the Mansi language means "Small Mountain of Idols". Once upon a time, millions of years ago, the Ural Mountains towered on this place, but over time, wind and water destroyed the rock. In some places, the stones turned out to be so strong that erosion could not cope with them - this is how a plateau with bizarre stony pillars, which are also called outliers, was formed. In total, there are seven such statues on the plateau, they rise in the middle of the plain, have a height of 30 to 42 meters and an unusual shape, at different angles resembling either the figure of a giant, or the head of a horse - in a word, there is where the imagination can roam.

23. Volcanoes of Kamchatka (Kamchatka)

The area of ​​the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky against the background of the Koryaksky volcano at dawn

Russia is great and immense, and if the sights of central Russia are concentrated in the cities adjacent to the capital, and acquaintance with them does not take much time, then to visit others you will have to travel to the opposite end of the mainland. So, to study the beautiful natural creations of the Kamchatka Peninsula, it is worth highlighting a separate trip - this region is so rich. It abounds in waterfalls, hot springs, beaches and bays, and, of course, the true symbol of Kamchatka is its many volcanoes. Few places on earth can find such a number of volcanoes in such a small area, and with them unique landscapes, so excursions to Kamchatka are primarily rafting on mountain rivers, climbing dormant volcanoes, skiing from snow-covered slopes, therapeutic bathing in thermal springs , acquaintance with the ancient culture of indigenous northern peoples and much, much more.

24. Lena Pillars (Yakutia)

Lena Pillars on the banks of the Lena River in Yakutia

In the Republic of Yakutia, on the banks of the large Siberian river Lena, there is an amazing stone ridge with a length of about 80 kilometers. The rocks, in some places reaching a height of 200 meters, were formed from ancient limestones, and their formation began about 500 million years ago. These formations have a bizarre striped "color" and an unusual elongated shape, and today a national park has been created on their territory. Since ancient times, this place was considered sacred - only shamans and elders were allowed to the rocks to talk with spirits. From a scientific point of view, the pillars are an example of ancient formations of sedimentary rocks - once there was a sea in their place, and the bone remains of marine inhabitants served as the material for the formation of future rocks. Over time, the sea dried up, and weathering processes led to the formation of unusual natural creations.

25. Kul Sharif Mosque (Kazan)

View from the Manege building to the Kul Sharif mosque in the Kazan Kremlin

The main mosque of Tatarstan and the symbol of the entire Tatar people is the Kul Sharif mosque in Kazan - a place for Muslim divine services, weddings, photo sessions for tourists, and just a corner of authentic beauty and tranquility. It is worth noting that the modern building is not a historical structure, it was erected quite recently on the site of the original Kul Sharif mosque that once existed here. The original building was destroyed back in the 16th century by the troops of the Russian tsar Grozny, and only from 1996 to 2005 work on the active restoration of the mosque began on this site, and the opening itself was timed to coincide with the millennium of the Tatar capital. The modern building is built of white marble and has eight high towers - minarets. Inside you can visit prayer halls, a museum of Islam, and especially for foreign visitors there are even special balconies from where you can watch the service.

26. Swallow's Nest (Crimea)

Castle Swallow's Nest on a rock above the Yalta Bay on the southern coast of Crimea
Amazing aerial view of the southern coast of Crimea with a castle over an abyss on a sunny day

Any quiz on the sights of Crimea is not complete without mentioning the most, perhaps, famous monument of the peninsula - a magnificent castle, literally hovering on the edge of a cliff above the sea. Of course, this is the well-known "Swallow's Nest" - the smallest castle in the world, located at the tip of the southern Cape Ai-Todor, at an altitude of 40 meters above sea level. The castle itself was built back in 1912 by order of a German baron, who wanted to see a castle in this beautiful place, reminding him of the architectural masterpieces of his distant homeland. In the Soviet years, more than one film was filmed in the vicinity of the castle, starting from the 70s until 2011, a restaurant worked within its walls, and today you can visit the museum, examine the interior and exterior of the building, and admire the view from the steep cliff.

27.Sayano-Shushenskaya HPP (Yenisei river)

Sayano-Shushenskaya hydroelectric power plant named after P. S. Neporozhny on the Yenisei River

In addition to the classic sights, there are other interesting places in Russia that clearly demonstrate the colossal nature of human labor and the genius of engineering. These include the dam of the Sayano-Shushenskaya hydroelectric power station - an impressive hydrotechnical structure in terms of its scale and complexity. In terms of the generated capacity, this hydroelectric power station ranks first among similar structures in Russia and seventh in the whole world. The dam has a huge height - 245 meters, and blocks the waters of one of the greatest rivers in the country - the Yenisei. It is not only the size of the hydroelectric power station that is impressive - perhaps the most striking spectacle is the incredibly powerful spillway, because in just one second more than 13 thousand cubic meters of water can be discharged through special compartments.

28. Shikhans in Bashkiria (Bashkir Urals)

Shikhan Tratau - an isolated upland (single mountain) in the Bashkir Urals

Few people know that in Bashkiria you can find ancient coral reefs that lay at the bottom of the Ural Sea millions of years ago. Shikhany are mountains that witnessed natural processes taking place in those immemorial times. These unique geological formations were essentially huge coral reefs, which, after the drying up of the ancient sea, became home to many land plants and animals. In modern times, the Shikhany represent certain benefits for the industry - a number of building materials are produced from multi-ton limestone deposits. Therefore, at the moment, out of the four shikhans, in fact, only three remain: Yuraktau, Kushtau and Toratau. H fourth Shihan Shakhtau, alas, almost all of it was recycled by the Bashkir industrial enterprise.

29. Elbrus (Caucasus)

Elbrus - the highest peak of Russia in the North Caucasus

The highest peak in Russia is 5,642 meters, and it belongs to the system of the Caucasus Mountains. This is Mount Elbrus at the junction of two republics - Karachay-Cherkess and Kabardino-Balkaria. The characteristic two-headed shape of Elbrus made the mountain a unique recognizable symbol of the North Caucasus. Today it fascinates and attracts the attention of both climbers seeking to conquer high peaks, and travelers who come to the foot to feel all the majesty and power of the stone giant. An interesting fact is that these two peaks are of volcanic origin - they were formed on a volcanic basis and, in fact, are two independent volcanoes. According to existing data, the last eruption took place here about 2 thousand years ago. The highest is the western peak, the eastern one is 21 meters lower, and the two peaks are separated by a saddle, the height of which is about 300 meters lower than the mountain peaks.

30. Plesetsk cosmodrome (Mirny)

Soyuz launch pad at the Plesetsk cosmodrome

While studying the sights of the world, it is worth paying attention to some objects of world importance in Russia - such is the Plesetsk cosmodrome, which has played an important role in the development of cosmonautics. For example, until 2018, it ranked first in the world in terms of the number of space launches and launched vehicles. The cosmodrome is located in the Plesetsk district of the Arkhangelsk region and occupies a huge area - more than 1,700 sq. kilometers. Independent visits are prohibited, and excursion entry to the cosmodrome territory is carried out through the checkpoint, where strict control is carried out, due to the secrecy of the objects located here. On the territory you can visit the Historical and Memorial Museum, which is especially interesting for its realistic dioramas showing the launch of rockets.

31. Trans-Siberian Railway

VL 85-022 with a container train on the Utulik-Slyudyanka stretch on the shore of Lake Baikal Sorovas

The great Siberian route, today called the Trans-Siberian Railway, surpasses all railway lines in the world in its scale. The length of the highway is almost 10 thousand kilometers, it passes through 21 constituent entities of the Russian Federation, and its main task is to connect the European region of the country, its main (Moscow) and the northern capital (St. Petersburg) with the most important Far Eastern and Eastern Siberian cities of Russia. The construction of the great Transsib started back in 1891, after the emperor issued a decree on the laying of the Great Siberian Way, and lasted for almost a quarter of a century. The starting point of construction was a place near Vladivostok - Kuperovskaya Pad, it was here that Tsarevich Nikolai, in the future Tsar Nikolai II, personally took the first wheelbarrow of land to the future roadbed.

32. Golden Mountains of Altai (Siberia)

Landscape of the State Biosphere Natural Reserve Golden Mountains of Altai

While the most popular historical sights are concentrated in the European part of Russia, its Asian part is a land of magnificent, pristine nature, wild spaces with a contrasting climate and sometimes very diverse nature. For example, Central Asia and Siberia are separated by a picturesque natural complex - the Golden Mountains of Altai, recognized as a world heritage site. Gorny Altai is a real treasury of natural resources: on an area of ​​1.64 million hectares, there is the Altai Biosphere Reserve, the Katunsky Nature Reserve, the Belukha and Ukok Peace Zone natural parks. There are few places in the world with equally contrasting landscapes - all natural Central Asian zones converged in this region: steppes, deserts, forest-steppes, mountain taiga, mixed forests, alpine and subalpine meadows. The pearl of Altai is the deep-water Teletskoye Lake, called the younger brother of Lake Baikal.

Jean & Nathalie

Mentioning the sights of the Crimean peninsula, one cannot fail to mention the magnificent monument of Crimean Tatar architecture - the Khan Palace in Bakhchisarai. In ancient sources, the palace is referred to as a khan's residence, the construction of which was completed by 1551. The main task of the masters who worked on the construction of the palace was the embodiment in the construction of the Muslim idea of ​​an earthly paradise, and as a result of their labors, not just a palace grew, but a miniature city, which became the center of the cultural, spiritual and political life of the Crimean Tatar state. In the 20th century, a national museum was opened within the walls of the palace, and since 1979, as a result of laborious restoration, the palace acquired the role of a monument of Crimean architecture. The palace territory is still rich in greenery, fountains, all buildings have an authentic facade with characteristic ornate paintings.

34. Naval Nikolsky Cathedral (Kronstadt)

View from Anchor Square to the Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in Kronstadt Florstein

At the very beginning of the 20th century, by decree of Tsar Nicholas II, the largest naval cathedral of the times of the Russian Empire, Nikolsky, was erected in the fortress city of Kronstadt. Today this beautiful monumental structure in the neo-Byzantine style is the main naval temple of the Russian Federation and serves as a branch of the Central Naval Museum. Inside the temple has a rich decoration with a mass of painted ornaments, an abundance of gilding, where much attention is paid to the nautical theme, because the cathedral was originally conceived as a monument to the lost sailors. In the hall of the temple you can see black memorial plaques made of marble, in the altar - the same white ones: the black ones contain the names of naval officers who died in battles, and the white ones - the names of the priests who died in the sea. An old garden is laid out in the square of the cathedral, in which 32 oak trees were planted with his own hands by the Russian tsar and his entourage.

The inner hall of the Narzan Gallery AlixSaz
Interior of the Narzan Gallery in Kislovodsk Laura bera

If we mention the natural sights of Russia, the presentation will not be complete without such riches that are not only pleasing to the eye, but also have a beneficial effect on human health. Narzan Gallery, located in the very heart of Kislovodsk, is a very successful synthesis of useful natural gifts and skillful architectural skill. Here, at the beginning of the 18th century, a narzan spring was discovered, the healing properties of its waters were quickly discovered, and a century later a well was equipped. In the same years, treatment with the waters of narzan also spread. So on the site of the source, by order of Prince Vorontsov, in 1858, a beautiful Gothic building made of yellow stone was built, intended for the recreation of holiday-makers who used life-giving water. The luxurious and spacious gallery has retained its original appearance to this day, having undergone only minor changes in the interior interiors.

“Well, we'll come. Well, let's take a dip. Well, let's have a cocktail. So, what is next? What do we do?" Sound familiar? If yes, congratulations, you are the very type of people who cannot sit still. Well, if, moreover, limp reclining in sun loungers inspires you as little as strong-willed surfing, then you are completely their small but elite class of aesthetes, greedy for art and architecture.

Admit it, you simply cannot look at the creations of Dali without trembling in your knees, the Acropolis brings you to a state close to prayer ecstasy, and the streets of old Prague are almost crazy. Congratulations, you are "an ordinary tourist, excursion-oriented."

The whole point of excursion tourism lies in the fact that it quietly coexists with beach vacations and ski vacations, as, indeed, with any other. One does not exclude the other here, but rather complements.

However, there are whole tours dedicated to sightseeing of cities and capitals, antiquities and natural wonders of all five continents. Such trips are usually chosen by individuals who are married to art or simply greedy for it in an amicable way, and people who want to see the world on vacation, and not just a couple of paradise, but absolutely identical atolls.

But in order to be as honest with yourself as possible, you still need to say that a "naked" excursion will not give you much pleasure - in your head you will only have a chaotic cocktail of porticoes and rotundas, dozens of museum halls and thousand-year-old ruins.

When choosing a program, do not chase the number of attractions - in the end, go on a trip again. Choose a moderate pace - richly sprinkle the excursions with rest, and get the most vivid and fresh impressions.

Destinations of rest

Classics: Europe. The main blow of the excursion elements usually falls on Mother Europe with its Czech Republic, France, Greece, Italy, Spain, and other antique-medieval joys. Tours in Europe, which, as you know, is not that great, often cover more than one country. Sometimes tours include visits to world famous attractions such as, for example, Versailles in France, the Colosseum in Italy, the Acropolis in Greece. Sometimes excursions are held exclusively to little-known places, sometimes highly specialized tours are organized, for example, on baroque architecture or on a temple structure.

Ancient civilizations. The second number in the popularity rating are the countries that grew up on the wreckage of ancient civilizations - Egypt, India, China, Chile, Peru, Mexico. Obviously, such tours are second not in terms of tourist interest, but in terms of remoteness, which is expressed not so much in geographical terms as in monetary terms. Ancient civilizations that have monuments that take us away even not into centuries - into millennia - are surprisingly mysterious and therefore alluring. The further into the dust of time, the more secrets to which, as you know, no one can remain indifferent.

Exotics and ecology. Ancient civilizations are followed by countries with exotic landscapes and landscapes - the Australian Great Barrier Reef, US lakes, waterfalls in Nigeria, the fantastic nature of the Galapagos. All this is really unusual. Amazing. Almost unrealistic.

Way of life. The next are countries with an unusual way of life - that is, any place on the planet whose existence differs from our multi-storey panel existence. Tunisian Berbers living in caves, Arab countries with their unconditional and fascinating adherence to the laws of the Koran, Japanese culture and the culture of the American Indians. For a civilized person, which, obviously, the entire excursion-amateur tribe is, such differences cause only admiration - at least from the understanding of how diverse the life of people on this planet can be.

Excursion Russia. Well, native Russia closes the five leading directions. The vastness of our country is huge: 9 climatic zones and the same number of time zones, mountain ranges, hills, deep rivers, dozens and hundreds of natural wonders - Avacha Bay, Kungur Ice Cave, Krasnoyarsk Pillars, Uzon Caldera ... it’s impossible to list everything. And then, there is also the magnificent architecture of our cities - Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, the luxury of folk crafts - Suzdal, Semenov, Gus-Khrustalny. Russia is inexhaustible, large and gorgeous, besides, in comparison with all of the above, it is quite budgetary.

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Places where every cultured person dreams of visiting.

Experts from TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel site, have compiled a ranking of 25 cultural sites that have been most highly rated by tourists from around the globe.

In general, if you have not yet decided on vacation plans, in this review site some great ideas can be found. For the next 25 vacations.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the New Wonders of the World, is located in the territory of modern Peru, on the top of a mountain range at an altitude of 2,450 meters above sea level. It is called "the city in the sky" or "the city among the clouds", sometimes called the "lost city of the Incas". Some archaeologists believe that this city was created as a sacred mountain refuge by the great Inca ruler Pachacutec around 1440, and functioned until 1532 when the Spanish invaded the territory of the Inca empire. In 1532, all of its inhabitants mysteriously disappeared.

2. Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is one of the six largest mosques in the world. Named after Sheikh Zayed ibn Sultan al-Nahyan, the founder and first president of the United Arab Emirates. Unlike many other Muslim temples, everyone is allowed into it, regardless of faith.

3. Taj Mahal, Agra, India

The Taj Mahal is one of the most recognizable landmarks not only in India but around the world. The structure was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and also a symbol of eternal love.

4. Mesquita, Cordoba, Spain

Walls decorated with intricate patterns, mosaic ornaments, hundreds of thin openwork columns - this is how the Cathedral Mosque of Cordoba appears today. Many centuries ago there was an ancient Roman temple on this place, then it was replaced by a Visigothic church, and in 785 Mesquita appeared. It became the second most important mosque on the planet, and the pilgrimage to Cordoba was even equated with the Hajj to Mecca, obligatory for every Muslim. But then the Catholics changed the Moors, and Mesquita was turned into a Christian temple.

5. St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican, Italy

The heart of the Vatican and the entire Catholic world, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the main attractions in Rome. Here you can observe ancient Rome from a bird's eye view, admire the interior of the cathedral from the top of the dome, defend Mass and even receive the blessing of the pontiff.

6. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Cambodian temple of Angkor Wat is the largest religious building ever created, with a history of almost 9 centuries. Even its name speaks about the monumentality of the temple complex, because Angkor Wat literally translates as the City-Temple. It covers an area of ​​200 hectares and is surrounded by a moat 190 meters wide. This colossal structure is dedicated to the god Vishnu, who is revered in this area.

7. Bayonne Temple Complex, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Bayon is one of the most amazing temples located on the territory of Angkor Thom and was its religious center. The "highlight" of Bayon are the towers with many faces, carved out of stone, silently gazing from a height at the vast territory of Angkor Thom, and during the heyday of the state - and the entire Khmer Empire. Initially, there were 54 towers, which symbolized the 54 provinces under the rule of the king. Today, only about 37 towers have survived.

8. Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ on Blood, St. Petersburg, Russia

The Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, better known as the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, has become the only Russian attraction on the Trip Advisor list. Savior on Spilled Blood attracts tourists from all over the world not only with the splendor of its domes and interiors, but also with an unusual history that has given rise to many legends and speculations. Many of them are connected with the fact that the temple was erected on the place where on March 1, 1881, a citizen of the People's Republic I. Grinevitsky mortally wounded Alexander II, who was popularly called the Tsar-Liberator for the abolition of serfdom.

9. Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

10. Walls of the old city, Dubrovnik, Croatia

In 1979, UNESCO inscribed Dubrovnik's Old Town as a World Heritage Site, including a significant portion of the city's ancient walls. They surround the city on all four sides and contain a venerable collection of historical monuments, including towers, fortresses, churches, monasteries, squares and streets, schools, museums and galleries. Built for defense purposes, these stone walls have protected their citizens since the founding of Dubrovnik in the 6th century.

11. Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar

The Shwedagon Pagoda is the tallest spiritual structure in Myanmar, or, as it is also called, the Country of Pagodas. The entire complex of a giant pagoda occupies more than five hectares of land, on which, in addition to the main structure, there are many smaller spiers and an innumerable number of sculptural images of mythical and real animals. : golden griffins and elephants, dragons and lions. The way it is today, the Shwedagon Pagoda became in the 15th century, during the reign of Queen Shinsobu. It was then that the giant temple was finally given the shape of an inverted begging bowl and sheathed with gold from top to bottom.

12. Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool, Washington DC

The Lincoln Memorial is a magnificent temple, made in the ancient Greek style and somewhat reminiscent of the Parthenon. It is supported by 36 columns of white marble, the number of states that belonged to the United States at the time of President Lincoln's death. In the center of the temple is a statue of the world's most respected American president, seated in a chair. Its height is 5.79 meters.

13. Ancient city of Petra, Petra / Wadi Musa, Jordan

In the very heart of Jordan, in the Wadi Musa Valley, deep in the sandy mountains is the most amazing ancient city of Petra. Petra was originally a temporary refuge for the nomadic Nabatean tribes. From several fortified rocky caves, it gradually grew into a large fortified city. You can get to the city in one way - through the narrow Siq gorge, which was once the bed of a mountain stream. Petra still belongs to the Bedouins, who warmly welcome guests on their land.

14. Site of the Great Wall of China Mutianyu, Beijing, China

In no other section of the Great Wall of China, restoration work has been done so well as in the Mutianyu section. This site, with 22 watchtowers that have retained their original appearance, is a true architectural masterpiece. The phrase Mutianyu is translated from Chinese as "a valley where you can admire the views of the fields." Of all the sections of the Great Wall of China, Mutianyu is the longest fully restored section open to tourist access.

15. Ancient city of Ephesus, Selcuk, Turkey

The largest and best-preserved ancient city on the shores of the Aegean Sea and the second most important after Pompeii in the Mediterranean, ancient Ephesus is the most visited attraction in Turkey. Legends associate the appearance of the city with the name of Androcles, the son of the ruler of Athens, Codrus, who, on the advice of the oracle, arrived in these places to lay the temple of Artemis. The city got its name from the Amazon, Ephesia, the beloved of Androcles.

16. Alhambra, Spain

The Alhambra (Arabic: Al Hamra - literally "Red Castle") is an ancient palace and fortress of the Moorish rulers of the province of Granada in southern Spain. The castle occupies the top of a rocky plateau on the southeastern border of Granada. The name Alhambra probably comes from the color of the sun-dried clay or bricks that make up the castle walls. However, some historians suggest that the name comes from the "red flame of torches" that illuminated the long-term construction of the castle, which went on around the clock.

17. Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia

The Australian War Memorial is the main memorial to the soldiers who died during the First and Second World Wars. Today it is considered one of the most significant monuments of its kind in the world. The memorial is located not far from the Parliament building, from the balcony of which a circular panorama of the monument opens.

18. Siena Cathedral, Siena, Italy

According to chronicles, at the beginning of the 13th century, the inhabitants of the city-state of Siena, which was the main competitor and adversary of Florence, "called on their leaders to build a temple more magnificent than that of their neighbors." So between 1215 and 1263 on the site of the old temple, the Duomo of Siena was founded according to the plan of the Gothic master Niccolò Pisano. Today this majestic temple is the main attraction of the city.

19.Milan Cathedral (Duomo), Milan, Italy

The most important place in Milan is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nachente (Duomo), a gem of Italian Gothic, which was built from 1386 until the beginning of the 19th century. The third largest Catholic church on the planet can be safely ranked as one of the wonders of the world. Its 100-meter spiers rise above the center of Milan, and the golden statue of the Madonna on the longest spire (four meters high) is visible from many parts of the city.

20. Temple of the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, ​​Spain

The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is one of the most famous long-term buildings in the world: its construction began almost 150 years ago and continues to this day. Although initially Antonio Gaudi had nothing to do with the construction of this temple, a year after the start of work, he headed this project. Gaudí built the temple for 30 years until he died. The reason for such a long construction is that the Sagrada Familia is being built exclusively on donations from the parishioners.

25. Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Its architect was the Dane Jorn Utzon. Designing original roofs, somewhat vaguely reminiscent of seashells, he gave Sydney a great gift - a symbol of the city. Today, every tourist, planning to visit Australia, must include an excursion to the majestic opera house in the program of his trip.

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On different continents of our planet, there are a huge number of sites worth visiting. Every year, thousands of tourists go on a trip to visit the places that seem to them the most attractive. We bring to your attention the list of the 25 most interesting objects in the world, compiled by Travelers "Choice. Take a closer look at this list and perhaps your next trip will take place in one of these beautiful corners of the Earth.

1. Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, which means "old peak", is the lost city of the Incas. The history of the city began in the 15th century, when defensive walls, palace and temple complexes, about 2750-0_bgblur_00 of various buildings and residential premises were built. The city, built of processed stone slabs, has many staircases and streets winding between buildings, often leading to a dead end or to a terrace overhanging an abyss. According to research, Machu Picchu was built by Pachacutec, one of the rulers of the Incas, with the aim of creating a sacred shelter for nobles, priests, astrologers, painters and sculptors. 12750-0_bgblur_00 people lived in and around the city. At the top of the cliff is the polygonal intihuatana stone, which is the sacred site of the city. Now Machu Picchu is visited by about 2750-0_bgblur_000 tourists every day. And in 2750-0_bgblur_0750-0_bgblur_07, Machu Picchu entered the list of seven new wonders of the world.

2. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Cambodia, one of the most exotic countries on the planet, is home to the main symbol of Khmer culture - the Angkor Wat temple. Its value for the country is so great that the temple was depicted on the national flag. It is interesting that the 50-meter pragni temple towers were built without cement, and they were built from top to bottom. A 250-meter bridge leads to the territory of the temple, the railings of which are decorated with images of the Naga serpent. The Temple itself outwardly symbolizes the ancient Mount Meru. Angkor Wat, built in the 12th century, is a platform in the form of a three-stage pyramid, which is crowned with five towers made in the form of lotus buds. When approaching the temple, there is a feeling that it "grows out of the ground", this is due to the different heights of the terraces. There are also internal buildings in Angkor Wat, which were prohibited in ancient times.

3. Taj Mahal, Agra, India

The Taj Mahal is located in the Indian city of Agra and is a monument of love that inspires poets and writers to create their creations. There are many legends about the creation of this structure. According to one of them, before accession to the throne, the Mughal Shah Jahan fell in love with the beautiful poor girl Mumtaz Mahal and stopped paying attention to his concubines. Having married her, he took her on military campaigns and entrusted his and state secrets. Having given birth to thirteen children to the Shah, Mumtaz died in childbirth on the fourteenth. The shah's grief was so great that he decided to build the most beautiful mausoleum on earth. The construction of the Taj Mahal took 22 years. The result was a magnificent palace with eleven domes and 2 side towers. After several suicides out of love, the passage to the minarets was closed to the public. Taj Mahal is the most visited place in India.

4. Ancient city of Petra, Petra / Wadi Musa, Jordan

One of the main attractions of Jordan is the ancient city of Petra. The city was founded by brave warriors and hardworking stonecutters - Nabateans, who lived in these parts about 2 thousand years ago. The territory of Petra stretches from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea. The name "Petra" was not given to the city by chance, since it is translated as "rock" and in reality is a city of stone, consisting of stone houses, ancient temples and mysterious crypts. A city like Petra did not exist during the Roman Empire. The central street of the ancient city, running from west to east, ends with a triumphal arch on one side, and a huge temple on the other. It is worth exploring the Treasury, surrounded by baths, crypts, funeral halls, temples and other buildings.

5. Bayonne Temple Complex, Siem Reap, Cambodia

In the ancient capital of Cambodia, there is an unusual Bayon temple complex, erected in honor of the ruler of the Khmer Empire Jayavarman VII in the 12-13 centuries. During the reign of Jayavarman, the Khmer Empire was the most powerful, which was reflected in architecture - many grandiose structures were built, one of which was the Bayon temple complex. In front of the temple there is a four-meter wall with images of scenes of the battle of Jayavarman VII with the Cham. The entrance to Bayonne is guarded by huge stone lions with gaping jaws. Nearby there is a statue of Buddha, which has been a place of worship for the inhabitants of Cambodia and neighboring countries for many years. On each tower of the temple complex there are four images of the god Avalokiteshvara, personifying compassion and mercy, so there are exactly two hundred of his faces. After the death of Jayavarman, no such structures were erected.

6. Mesquita (Cordoba Cathedral Mosque), Cordoba, Spain

The Spanish city of Cordoba is home to the Mesquita, a unique cathedral mosque that combines various architectural styles. Built in the 8th century, the mosque-cathedral was reconstructed several times by Christians in order to give it the appearance of a Christian temple. As a result, the mosque became the largest in the Islamic West and was so beautiful that Christians did not dare to destroy it and consecrated it as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady. Through the cathedral tower you can get to the magnificent Orange Courtyard, created over several centuries. There are five ablution fountains in the courtyard. The interior of the mosque is decorated with marble panels and multicolor mosaics. The prayer hall contains 850 columns made of granite, jasper and marble and sparkling in different colors.

7. Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ on Blood, St. Petersburg, Russia

The Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ on Spilled Blood (Savior on Spilled Blood) is one of the most famous Russian historical and memorial complexes. The cathedral was built in St. Petersburg in 19750-0_bgblur_07 on the site of the murder of Alexander II. From the side of Nevsky Prospect, a picturesque view of the temple opens, located between Konyushennaya Square and the Field of Mars. The architecture of the cathedral is dominated by the main features of Russian churches of the 16-17 centuries, characteristic of Moscow, Yaroslavl and Rostov, in particular, the Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed. The interiors of the temple are dominated by mosaics, a huge number of semi-precious and ornamental stones, as well as about 20 types of minerals. In addition, the iconostasis of pink and dark red marble, decoration of porphyry, jasper, eagle, asp and other materials add luxury to the temple.

8. St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, Italy

St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican is a Renaissance temple and is the main liturgical center of the Catholic Church. The building of the cathedral was built in the 16-17 centuries on the place of the repose of the Apostle Peter, his relics are still kept under the altar of the temple. The main feature of St. Peter's Basilica is its impressive size and rich interior decoration. On both sides of the main nave, in numerous chapels and niches, are statues by Michelangelo and Bernini. A huge canopy is located in the very center of the cathedral, in which the Pope sits during Mass. In addition to the above, the cathedral contains a large number of relics of saints and other relics, as well as the burials of several popes and European monarchs.

9. Walls of the old city, Dubrovnik, Croatia

The ancient Croatian city of Dubrovnik can be called a real pearl of the Adriatic and one of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean. Small houses with red tiled roofs, monasteries and churches, mansions and narrow cobbled streets are all surrounded by a medieval fortress wall. The walls of the Old Town were built in the 12-14th centuries and are some of the most beautiful structures of their kind in Europe. The widest street, Stradun, practically repeats the location of the strait that once divided the city. In the vicinity of narrow residential buildings, there are temples and palaces, as well as other masterpieces of architecture. For example, the Great Onuphrius Fountain, created in the 15th century, used to play the role of a water supply system, drinking water into which was supplied from a mountain spring through an aqueduct.