Russia, the world's largest country, is a land of exceptional historical and cultural richness. From the grandeur of the tsars to the Soviet revolution, through centuries of conquest and expansion, Russia has shaped the destiny of Europe and Asia. Great figures like Peter the Great and Catherine the Great left their mark on imperial history, while the Russian Revolution of 1917 gave birth to the Soviet Union. Since the collapse of the USSR in 1991, Russia has once again become an independent federation. Today, Russia is a modern country with a vibrant culture, where art, literature, and music play a central role. Writers like Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, composers like Tchaikovsky, and iconic architectural works like Red Square and the Kremlin are at the heart of Russian identity.
Russian culture is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, visible in its festivals, folk dances, and historical monuments.
Traditional Gastronomy and Gluten Free Options
Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, perfect for braving the country's harsh winters. Soups, stews, and vegetable and meat dishes are at the heart of Russian gastronomy. While some recipes include wheat, gluten-free alternatives exist so everyone can enjoy the traditional flavors.
Here are some gluten-free Russian dishes:
- Borscht : A beetroot-based soup, often accompanied by meat and vegetables such as cabbage and carrots. Naturally gluten-free, this dish is perfect for cold days.
- Shchi : A traditional Russian cabbage soup, sometimes prepared with pork or beef. This dish is also naturally gluten-free.
- Gluten-free pelmeni : Pelmeni, meat-filled dumplings, can be adapted with gluten-free flours.
- Solyanka : A spicy meat stew (beef or pork), with vegetables, pickles and olives, naturally gluten-free when prepared without flour.
These dishes reflect the richness of Russian cuisine, full of robust flavors and comforting textures.
Must-See Places to Visit in Russia
Russia is a vast country, offering a multitude of historical and natural sites to discover. Here are a few must-sees to visit during your trip:
- Moscow : The Russian capital is full of historical monuments, including Red Square , the Kremlin and the famous St. Basil's Cathedral , with its iconic colorful domes.
- Saint Petersburg : An imperial city founded by Peter the Great, Saint Petersburg is famous for its sumptuous palaces such as the Winter Palace and the Hermitage , one of the world's greatest art museums.
- The Golden Ring : A collection of medieval towns located around Moscow, offering a glimpse of rural Russia and its churches adorned with golden domes.
- The Trans-Siberian Railway : This iconic railway crosses Russia from west to east, linking Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through spectacular landscapes and historic cities.
These sites will allow you to discover the historical grandeur and natural beauty of Russia.
