Russia is the largest country in the world, and because the extension of this country is very wide, there are many different time zones, diverse environments and terrains, and the world's largest reserves of mineral and energy resources. It is the ninth largest country in terms of population, with approximately 143 million people. This country extends across the entirety of North Asia, and constitutes 40% of the total area of Europe. It is a naturally rich country where you find lakes, rivers, waterfalls, forests, green hills, and many kinds of animals, and it is one of the countries where you can see the amazing lights of the aurora borealis. Russia has a rich history of events, as many civilizations and empires passed through and settled in it, the last of which was the Soviet Empire. During your wanderings in Russian cities, you will find some of the legacy of those ancient civilizations, such as the amazing churches with many colors in which Russia is famous.