Kaliningrad

Kaliningrad is the new name of the old city Kenigsberg, founded in 1255 by the knights of the Teutonic order. The unique city, part of which is occupied by parks and public gardens, was renamed Kaliningrad in 1946. Here the architecture typical for old European capitals is harmonically combined with modern buildings. Kaliningrad is an economical and cultural center of the region. The tourists' interest to the city has been constantly growing. Kaliningrad is located near the Baltic Sea and known as the city of amber. The pride of Kaliningrad is the zoo, where the visitors can see various animals and birds, including the rare ones. Kaliningrad is also one of the scientific centers of Russia, as there are several famous Universities and Naval schools in the city. Moreover the city is famous as the place where Immanuel Kant, a world-famous philosopher, is buried. Today, even with the extensive damage suffered during World War II, Kaliningrad offers an amazing opportunity to see a Russian world still somewhat untainted by the world of fast food and easy living. Here you can get a feel for the communism that once existed as well as just relax and appreciate the attractive parks, gardens and monuments. There are also a number of museums and old buildings worth visiting. Besides seeing the sights, you can spend time at the few nightspots or restaurants that dot the city. There are also great hotels available as well as the nearby Svetlogorsk which is a costal spa resort. If you like to return to nature once in a while, the Kursche Spit is a stunning peninsula of sand which is rich in plants and animals. Kaliningrad is a challenging but unforgettable and rewarding destination for the more intrepid traveler.

Facts about Kaliningrad

Area: 215,70 sq km
Location: It is located on the Baltic Sea coast and not physically attached to Russia. The city lies between Lithuania and Poland.
Geographic coordinates: 54 43 N, 20 30 E
Population: approx 426,000 (2005 est)
Foundation: 1255
Climate: Transitional (from gently continental to nautical).
UTC/GMT Offset: UTC/GMT + 2 hours
Area code: 0112
Major attractions: Konigsberg Cathedral, Victory Monument.