24 Fascinating Facts You Didn’t Know About Russia

Russia is currently in the spotlight due to political events, yet prior to the invasion of Ukraine, our experience in Russia revealed it to be a captivating country. With over 5 million tourists visiting in 2019, it’s clear that despite current circumstances, the allure of Russia still captivates many. During our journey through Russia in the Mongol Rally, we discovered landscapes reminiscent of Canada and encountered warm and hospitable locals.

Fun and Interesting Facts About Russia

While Russia has become less frequented as a travel destination, curiosity about the country remains strong. Below, we share intriguing facts that provide insight into Russian culture, heritage, and geography. Being bordered by 14 countries, Russia’s vastness warrants exploration.

Bordering countries include Norway (to the northwest), Finland (to the northwest), Estonia (to the west), Latvia (to the west), Lithuania (via the Kaliningrad exclave, to the west), Poland (via the Kaliningrad exclave, to the west), Belarus (to the west), Ukraine (to the southwest), Georgia (to the southwest), Azerbaijan (to the southwest), Kazakhstan (to the south), China (to the southeast), Mongolia (to the southeast), and North Korea (to the southeast). Additionally, it is bordered by three oceans (Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic) and the Baltic Sea, illustrating a significant geographic prominence.

1. History – Back in the USSR

In 1917, Vladimir Lenin led the Bolshevik Revolution, overthrowing the Russian Tsar and establishing the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (U.S.S.R.), which encompassed Russia and 11 additional countries. Following the fall of Communism, the USSR dissolved, giving rise to the Russian Federation. Although Vladimir Putin claims the country functions as a democracy, the oppressive treatment of dissent remains evident.

2. The Kremlin is the largest medieval fortified complex in the world

Recognized for its beauty, the Kremlin holds the distinction of being the world’s largest medieval fortified complex. Situated along the Moskva River, it serves as the official residence of the President of Russia. Its history dates back to the 2nd century BC, having been a focal point of power across centuries.

In 1990, the Kremlin and nearby Red Square were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout history, it has been a witness to significant events, from the reign of Ivan the Terrible to serving as the residence of Russian tsars and the headquarters of the Soviet government, now hosting the Russian president.

3. Russia is a Part of Asia

Many may ponder Russia’s continental alignment; it is indeed both European and Asian. Approximately 75% of Russia’s landmass lies within Asia. Our travels through Russia en route to Mongolia revealed the eastern part to embody a distinctly Asian character.

Siberia accounts for 77% of the Russian Federation’s land but hosts only 20% of its population, largely due to its inhospitable climate.

During our summer drive across Siberia, we were enchanted by its beauty, which reminded us of Canada. The warmth and hospitality of the people added to the charm of this off-the-beaten-path destination, famous for its rugged landscapes and wildlife, including reindeer sightings.

4. Russia Is the Largest Country by Land Mass

According to landmass statistics, Russia is the world’s largest country, an impressive attribute for any traveler seeking exploration. It spans 6,601,665 square miles (17,098,242 square kilometers), constituting approximately 11% of the globe’s total landmass. In comparison, the next largest country, Canada, covers 3,855,101 square miles (9,984,665 square kilometers).

To emphasize its enormity, Russia is twice the size of the USA, extending across 14 time zones and embodying a rich diversity of cultures and peoples. Rather than states, Russia comprises a federation made up of 86 republics, provinces, territories, and districts.

5. The World’s Longest Railway Is in Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway, stretching from Moscow to Vladivostok, holds the title of the longest railway in the world, covering an immense 5,772 miles. After completion in 1916, various segments began operating earlier. Regrettably, we missed the opportunity to travel back to Europe aboard this iconic railway post-Mongol Rally.

The railway encompasses several branches, including the Trans-Mongolian, Trans-Manchurian, and Baikal-Amur Mainline, showcasing the vastness of Russia’s rail connectivity.

6. Tetris Was Invented in Russia

Many might not realize that the beloved game Tetris originated in Russia. Created by Alexey Pajitnov in 1984 for the Electronika 60 computer, it rapidly gained popularity throughout Russia and debuted in Europe and North America by 1987, achieving worldwide acclaim as a classic computer game.

7. Russia Has 11 Time Zones

The expansive nature of Russia results in the existence of 11 distinct time zones. However, it is not the country with the most time zones; that distinction belongs to France, due to its overseas territories. Traveling across Russia could lead to experiencing jet lag merely while remaining within its borders!

8. Russia Has 12 Active Volcanoes

A surprising aspect of Russia is the presence of 12 active volcanoes, with Kamchatka being a popular destination due to ease of access. Contrary to the common perception of Russia as predominantly icy, its geography is richly diverse, featuring everything from steppes and forests to volcanic landscapes. Kamchatka boasts a remarkable array of flora and fauna, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts.

9. Russia Is Home to A Lot Of Famous Literature

Russia’s literary heritage includes some of the world’s finest authors, such as Alexander Pushkin, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, and Ivan Turgenev. Notable writers like Fyodor Dostoevsky and Leo Tolstoy have left lasting marks on literature, with famous works such as “Crime and Punishment” and “War and Peace” shaping the literary world.

10. Russia has the Deepest Lake in the World

Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also the deepest lake globally, reaching a staggering depth of approximately 1,642 meters (5,387 feet). Holding around 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater, Baikal is also believed to be one of the world’s oldest lakes, contributing significant insights into evolution and geological history.

11. Europe’s Two Largest Lakes are in Russia

Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega stand as Europe’s two largest lakes. Lake Ladoga is approximately 17,700 square kilometers (6,800 square miles) in size, while Lake Onega is known for its unique islands, home to churches constructed using only a single nail.

12. The Volga River is the longest River in Europe.

The Volga River holds the title as Europe’s longest river, although it is not the longest in Russia. Remember, Russia’s vastness means it straddles two continents.

13. The Official Language for Space is Russian and English

A fascinating fact is that both Russian and English are the official languages used in space, particularly within the International Space Station (ISS). Astronauts and cosmonauts receive extensive training in both languages to ensure effective communication during missions.

14. Yuri Gagarin was the First Person in Space

While Neil Armstrong is celebrated as the first person to walk on the moon, Yuri Gagarin made history by becoming the first human in space in 1961 aboard Vostok 1. His tragic demise in a plane crash in 1968 at the young age of 34 saddened many, marking a significant loss for both the space and aviation communities.

15. Russia Has One of the World’s Busiest Metros

Moscow’s metro station ranks as the fourth-busiest in the world, with over 2 billion passengers annually. This efficient transportation network facilitates easy navigation for both residents and visitors.

16. St. Petersburg Metro is one of the deepest metro lines in the world.

The St. Petersburg Metro, established on November 15, 1955, is renowned for its deep stations, particularly Admiralteyskaya, which is approximately 86 meters (282 feet) below ground. Its extreme depth stems from the need to tunnel under the Neva River.

17. Russians Learn Not to Smile

Interestingly, Russian culture does not prioritize smiling, as many other cultures do. To Russians, a smile may convey weakness rather than friendliness, reserved for those they are close to. General interactions with strangers may not include smiles, although we experienced friendly waves from many Russians during our travels.

18. 54% Of the Russian Population Is Female

There exists a significant gender gap in Russia, with females comprising 54% of the population compared to 46% for males. This disparity stems from historical events, including World War II, which saw a significant loss of male soldiers. Even today, men in Russia tend to have shorter lifespans than women.

Rich in diversity, Russia is home to over 190 ethnic groups, with Russians making up 80% of the population alongside Tatars, Ukrainians, and other notable groups.

19. Vodka is Actually From Poland

While vodka is commonly consumed throughout Russia, its origins trace back to Poland. Both Russia and Poland lay claim to its invention, although historical evidence suggests that vodka production in Poland dates back to the 8th or 9th century.

20. The Hermitage Museum of St. Petersburg is Pretty Awesome.

The Hermitage Museum, famed for its vast collection, holds the Guinness World Record for the largest assembly of paintings worldwide, boasting over 3 million items, including masterpieces of art and ancient artifacts.

21. Folk Dancing Is a Tradition in Russia

Folk dancing remains an integral aspect of Russian culture, with styles such as Khorovod involving participants dancing in a circle while holding hands. Attending a performance can offer deeper insights into Russian traditions and cultural expressions.

22. 20% Of the Earth’s Trees Are in Russia

Naturally inclined individuals will appreciate that roughly 20% of the world’s trees reside in Russia, equivalent to around 640 billion trees. Many of these trees thrive in remote Siberian forests, supporting valuable ecosystems that include endangered species like the Siberian tiger.

23. Russia Is Home to the Coldest Village in the World

Due to its frigid winters, Russia hosts Oymyakon, recognized as the coldest village globally. With average winter temperatures plummeting to -58 degrees Fahrenheit, it epitomizes the country’s harsh climate conditions, yet regions like Sochi enjoy contrasting Mediterranean climates.

24. Russians Have Plenty of Superstitions

Russians hold a variety of superstitions and cultural traditions. For instance, flowers are traditionally given in odd numbers since even-number arrangements are associated with funerals. Additionally, wearing clothes inside out is generally viewed as bad luck.

25. Russia Sold Alaska for 7.2 Million Dollars

In 1897, Russia engaged in the sale of Alaska to the United States for just 7.2 million dollars. When adjusted for inflation, this figure equates to around 120 million dollars today. At that time, Russian settlers were few, prompting the decision to sell the territory—a strategic move intended to counterbalance power in Europe.

In summary, Russia is an intriguing place for anyone interested in history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. While it may not be a conventional tourist hotspot, those seeking adventure and authenticity will find value in exploring this magnificent country.