The Russian Federation, known for its immense size and striking diversity, remains the largest country on the planet. Stretching from the Baltics in the west to the Pacific shores near Alaska in the east, Russia spans 11 time zones and encompasses over 100 languages. The nation’s breathtaking landscapes and mosaic of cultures cover an astonishing area of 6.6 million sq. miles (17.1 million sq. km), yet its sheer scale tells a story of centuries of conquest, complex history, and evolving identity.
The journey to becoming such a colossal nation involves the legacy of medieval states, invasions, relentless expansions, and a succession of determined rulers who shaped Russia’s vast empire. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to uncover how this country became so large.