Russia is the world's largest country, spanning eleven time zones from the Baltic Sea to the Pacific Ocean. This vast nation encompasses Arctic tundra, Siberian taiga, Caucasus mountains, and everything between. Moscow's Red Square and St. Petersburg's Hermitage represent just the western edge of a country that defies simple characterization. The Trans-Siberian Railway traverses a continent, passing Lake Baikal—the world's deepest lake containing 20% of Earth's fresh surface water. Russian culture has produced towering achievements in literature, music, ballet, and visual arts. From the golden domes of Orthodox churches to the stark beauty of Kamchatka's volcanoes, Russia offers experiences as diverse as its enormous geography.