Krasnodar is the capital of Kuban. It is an ancient city that was called Ekaterinodar until 1920. The city was formed to serve as a military camp. It was founded by the former Zaporozhian Cossacks who settled in Kuban when the North Caucasus became the part of Russia. The place for the camp was chosen by chieftain Zahary Chepega. His choice was quite successful, as the camp was set near the Arkhangelsk redoubt that was constructed here at the initiative of Alexander Suvorov, a great Russian commander.
The first settlement was the concentration of Ukrainian huts surrounded by wooden watch towers. This islet appeared in the vast oak wood covering the right coast of Kuban. A century and a half later, Ekaterinodar gained a city status. A railroad was built here in the late 19th century, which made future Krasnodar the transport and industrial center of Kuban.
In 1920, the soldiers of the Red Army fully dislodged the White Russian from the city. Under Soviet rule, the city steadily developed and became not only the administrative, but also culture center of Krasnodar Region. The city went through the German occupation during the Great Patriotic War and the post-war devastation with honor. Today, Krasnodar is one of the largest centers of the North Caucasus where a lot of research institutes are located. The modern city is divided into four districts: Western, Karasunsky, Central, and Prikubansky. The city is very beautiful and interesting. There are a lot of different attractions, incredibly beautiful places for walks, entertainments venues, and colorful markets.
Today, Krasnodar attracts tourists with its rich historical heritage, amazing parks, and symbolic monuments. It is also a place where a lot of important sports competitions are often held. Fans of sightseeing tours should definitely see the Temple of Catherine the Great built at the beginning of the 20th century. Since its construction, it has been the main religious site in the city. The author of its project was I. K. Malberg. After the Revolution, exactly he convinced the city government not to destroy the temple. For the years of its existence, the temple in the Byzantium style almost has not changed.
In one of the most beautiful historical buildings in Krasnodar, there is the Art Museum of F. A. Kovalenko. It is the oldest museum in the North Caucasus. The art gallery was opened at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, the museum houses over 13 000 exhibits, including amazing paintings and sculptures and pieces of applied arts. The museum was founded by F.A. Kovalenko, a famous collector. His private collection is a core of the unique museum exposure.
Another unique attraction here is the Krasnodar Oceanarium opened in 2011. It is one of the largest oceanariums in Russia and occupies almost 3 000 m3. In total, it presents over 200 species of sea dwellers, including rare fish, stingrays, turtles, crustaceans, and rare sea predators. The oceanarium primarily attracts visitors with children. There are also many interesting rides for the youngest guests.
In the city, there is the amazing Safari Park suitable for family recreation. It was opened in 2006. Initially, there were not so many animals in the park. Before, you could see here several monkeys and lemurs. Today, 250 different species of animals dwell in the park. They were transferred here from different countries. The visitors of the park can see real Australian kangaroos, camels, rare predators, and amphibians here. In the territory of the park, there are hundreds of decorative plants and trees, so you can spend time here even on a hot day with pleasure. This special park is distinguished by huge figures of prehistoric animals, in the background of which you can take wonderful pictures.
Sightseeing in Russia: things to see
The city of Saint Petersburg remains the cultural capital of Russia. Nearly every street in this city is an important historic and architectural place of interest. Travelers are recommended to visit Peterhof, a famous series of palaces and gardens, which is located not far away from the center of the city. Peterhof was built by initiative and under control of Russian tsar Peter the Great. Nowadays, the palace exhibits numerous historic documents, plans and drafts. The Smolny Cathedral is one more famous attraction of the city that is also recommended to visit. The beautiful cathedral is made in best traditions of baroque style. Its height is 94 metres; its halls and the facade are decorated with gilding, and blue walls of the cathedral feature skillfully made fretwork. Inner premises of the Smolny are no less beautiful and amaze visitors with stunning frescoes and carvings.
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