Russia Beyond

Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Building – an elite getaway for Chekists, built by prisoners (PHOTOS)

We’ll tell you what was in the famous building, whether it is true that it had a GULAG right on the construction site and who lives in the once elite skyscraper now.
Culture
10 largest nature reserves of Russia (PHOTOS)

Why is Wrangel Island dubbed a “maternity hospital for polar bears”? Where exactly is the geographical center of the country and how many species of whales inhabit the waters of Kamchatka?
Travel
How the Mongols first crushed the Russians

The Russian princes initially treated the newcomers from the East with disdain. But, soon, they had to deeply regret it.
History
Why are there plugs sticking out of cars in northern Russia?

If you thought they were electric cars, you’re wrong! These are almost regular gasoline-powered cars, but adapted to the extremely cold winters that last more than half a year!
Science & Tech
What’s going on in Flavitsky’s famous ‘Princess Tarakanova’ painting?

The well-known painting of Konstantin Flavitsky reveals an exciting story of a Russian 18th century adventurer.
Culture