Mr. Spock Goes to
First of all, let's get a little perspective on where in the universe
Russia-- or as it's more properly called-- the Russian Federation is located.
It's so huge that it engulfs two continents, Asia and Europe, stretching
from its easternmost border with Poland and its westernmost (aqueous) border
with the United States. Due to the vastness, Spock visited only the
European portion, in particular, Moscow, Vladimir, Saint Petersburg, and
Kostroma.
Moscow is the capital city of Russia,
having been founded by prince Yuri Dolgoruky in 1147 on the banks of the
Moskva river. It's the economic, political and cultural center of
Russia and the seat of the Russian government. It's famous for its
architectual monuments (Red Square, the Kremlin, St.Basil`s Cathedral),
theaters (the Bolshoi, Maly), the Metro (seriously, the underground artistry
is stunning), Gorky Park and . . . its long, cold winters.
Vladimir, a Russian town that claims a history of over 1000 years, is an historic capital of Russia founded on the banks of the Klyazma river. It rests within the famous Golden Ring of Europe, known for it's beautiful artistic wonders and important Russian historical significance. Some of its famous sites include the Assumption Cathedral, the Cathedral of Dmitry, the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl, and the historic entrance to the city, the Golden Gate.
Saint Petersburg, was founded by Peter the Great over 300 years ago in the marshes on the banks of the Gulf of Finland. It's Russia's main port city and window to western Europe. As a young city designed to be part of Europe rather than Asia, it has a rich history of European architecture. It's famous for this European architecture, much of it being former homes of Russian tzars that have been transformed into historic museums (Hermitage, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter and Paul Fortress, Church on Spilled Blood, Peterghof). It's also famous for its theaters, many canals and bridges, and the White Nights as a result of it being so close to the Arctic Circle.
Kostroma is nearly the same age as Moscow, founded on the banks of the Volga river, the longest river in Europe. It plays a particularly distinct role in Russian history as the birthplace of the Romanov Dynasty. It's part of the Golden Ring of Russia as well and is famous for the Fire-watch Tower, the Church of the Resurrection, and the Epiphany-Anatasian Convent.
So now that Spock has a map, where does he go? Look at the pictures
to find out!
Playtrek Spock getting to know the
Russian people
Playtrek Spock learning the Russian
history
Playtrek Spock experiencing the
Russian culture
If you'd like to see Robert & Pattie Porter's adventures in Russia with Spock, click HERE.