Top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Russia

By Nandhini Devi

Tuesday, July 12, 2011, 17:57

Today, Russia celebrates the 450th anniversary of one of its greatest attraction's - Saint Basil's Cathedral. This cathedral has been included as on among the many hundreds of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites emphasize the importance of our traditions, cultures and history. They make us realise that without this strong heritage laid down by our ancestors, out present lives would not make much meaning.

Let's have a look at the top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Russia, which includes both cultural and natural sites.

Saint Basil's Cathedral: This ancient and colourful cathedral is a landmark on the Red Square, and is centrally located in the city of Moscow. This is one of the most eye-captivating Russian Orthodox Monuments.

The Kremlin: Also known as the Moscow Kremlin, this is a historical complex located in the heart of Moscow. It overlooks the Moskva River, and has the Red Square and Alexander Garden on either sides. It is also situated in proximity to Saint Basil's Cathedral. This complex that includes four cathedrals and towers, serves as the residence for the President of the Russian Federation.

Golden Mountains of Altai: This is the next important UNESCO World Heritage Site in Russia. This site includes Lake Teletskoye, Ukok Plateau, Altai and Katun Natural Reserves and Belukha Mountain. This region is home to endangered animal species such as Altai argali and the snow leapord.

Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg: This site is also termed as the 'Venice of the North'. The buildings on this site are a mix of both neoclassical styles and pure Baroque styles. Some of the important landmarks that are situated on this site are the Winter Palace, the Admiralty, the Hermitage and the Marble Palace.

Volcanoes of Kamchatka: These volcanoes are some of the most outstanding volcanic destinations of the world. The Kamchatka River flows here and is valley that surrounds it is filled with 160 volcanoes out of which 23 are still active. This site includes many nature parks as well.

These were the top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Russia, that one must visit, while holidaying in Russia.