2. Architecture The ancient Russian state of Kievan Rus’ adopted Christianity in 988. Many spectacular churches have been built throughout the country. Below are pictures (from left to right) of Saint Sophia Cathedral (1050), Saint Basil’s Cathedral (1561), St. Nicholas Church (1657), and Znamenskaya Church (1704).
3. Innovation Russia (the USSR) sent the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, into orbit in 1957. Four years later, in 1961, the USSR sent a man into space for the first time, when Yuri Gagarin was sent into orbit onboard the Vostok 1 The USSR was home to Nikolai Basov and Alexander Prokhorov, who cocreated the Laser and Maser. Mikhail Kalashnikov is famous for inventing the AK-47 and AK-74 assault rifles. The AK series assault rifles are the most popular assault rifles in the world. There have been more AK rifles sold than any other type of assault rifle combined.
4. Holidays There are 8 public holidays that are celebrated in Russia, including: New Years, Christmas, Defender of the Motherland Day, International Women’s Day, Spring and Labor Day, Victory Day, Russia Day, and Unity Day. In Russia, New Years Day is the most popular holiday. It is celebrated similarly to how we celebrate Christmas in the United States. Russians put up a New Years tree in their homes, and give each other presents. They also have Ded Moroz, or Father Frost, whose role is similar to Santa Clause. May 9 serves as Victory Day in Russia. People celebrate the victory over the Nazis in world war 2. A huge military parade is organized each year on the Red Square in Moscow. This parade is hosted by the President of Russia and features fireworks.
5. Sources Wikipedia.com articles: Russian Culture Russian Architecture Lasers Public Holidays in Russia Victory Day(may9)
