15 Things You Didn’t Know About Russia

Think you know Russia? Think again! From hidden freshwater giants to a metro system that’s a work of art, and superstitions that might surprise you, Russia is full of fascinating secrets. Dive into 15 things you probably didn’t know about this incredible country.

written by: BOGI – Continent Surfer

Russia, the world’s largest country, is a land of fascinating contrasts, immense landscapes, and a rich, complex history. While some perceptions might be common, there’s so much more to discover beyond the headlines. Get ready to have your mind expanded with these 15 surprising facts about Russia!

1. It Spans 11 Time Zones

That’s right! From Kaliningrad in the west to the Bering Strait in the east, Russia covers 11 different time zones. When people are having breakfast in one part of the country, others are already winding down for the night.

2. Lake Baikal Holds a Fifth of the World’s Freshwater

Located in Siberia, Lake Baikal is not only the deepest lake in the world, but it also contains approximately 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater. It’s an ancient, massive, and incredibly biodiverse ecosystem.

3. There Are More Than 100 Different Ethnic Groups

Russia is a true melting pot. While Russians form the majority, the country is home to over 100 distinct ethnic groups, speaking a multitude of languages and preserving diverse cultural traditions.

4. Moscow Has the Busiest Metro System Outside of Asia

The Moscow Metro is renowned for its stunning architecture, but it’s also incredibly efficient. It’s one of the busiest metro systems in the world, carrying millions of passengers daily through its ornate stations.

5. Russian Is Europe’s Most Widely Spoken Native Language

With over 150 million native speakers, Russian holds the title of the most widely spoken native language in Europe. It’s also one of the six official languages of the United Nations.

6. The Trans-Siberian Railway is the Longest Railway Line in the World

Stretching for over 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles) from Moscow to Vladivostok, the Trans-Siberian Railway is an epic journey and the longest railway line on Earth.

7. Russians Are Superstitious About Flowers

When giving flowers in Russia, it’s customary to give an odd number of blooms. Even numbers are typically reserved for funerals. And never give yellow flowers, as they symbolize separation or betrayal.

8. The Hermitage Museum Has More Than 3 Million Items

Located in St. Petersburg, the Hermitage Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world. Its collection boasts over three million items, meaning you’d need years to see everything!

9. They Have a Deep Love for Banya (Russian Bathhouses)

The banya is a cherished tradition in Russia, more than just a place to get clean. It’s a social ritual, a place for relaxation, and believed to have health benefits, often involving venik (birch or oak branches) whisking.

10. The Teremok Fast-Food Chain Sells Traditional Russian Food

Forget your usual fast-food chains. In Russia, you can find Teremok, a popular fast-food restaurant that specializes in traditional Russian dishes like blini (crepes with various fillings), kasha (porridge), and borscht.

11. Russia Shares a Border with 14 Countries

Due to its immense size, Russia has more neighboring countries than almost any other nation. It shares land borders with 14 different countries, including Norway, Finland, China, and North Korea.

12. There’s a “Museum of Emotions” in St. Petersburg

For something truly unique, check out the Museum of Emotions in St. Petersburg. It’s an interactive space designed to evoke and explore various human emotions through different installations.

13. Winter Is More Than Just Cold – It’s a Lifestyle

Russian winters are legendary for their intensity, but they’re also a deeply ingrained part of the culture. From ice skating and cross-country skiing to hearty warming foods and cozy evenings, winter is embraced.

14. The Ob River System is the Third Longest in Asia

While not as famous as some other rivers, the Ob River system in Siberia is incredibly vast. Including its main tributary, the Irtysh, it’s the third-longest river system in Asia and the seventh-longest in the world.

15. Matryoshka Dolls Were Inspired by Japanese Dolls

The iconic matryoshka dolls, those charming stacking wooden figures, are a symbol of Russia. However, their origin is surprisingly influenced by Japanese dolls, specifically a set depicting the Seven Lucky Gods, brought to Russia in the late 19th century.

Did any of these facts surprise you? Russia truly is a country full of wonders and unexpected details!

Did you know?

Russia has a place called “Oymyakon,” often considered the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth, where temperatures can drop below -50°C (-58°F)!

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