Beautiful places in Kaliningrad. Beautiful places in the Kaliningrad region. The most interesting places in Kaliningrad
The Western Gate of Russia, the pride of the Baltic, the former Königsberg - all this is about the most European of Russian cities - Kaliningrad. Many tourists come here all year round, and this city does not disappoint anyone: many iconic attractions, developed infrastructure and, of course, the sea. All this, coupled with a huge number of hotels and resorts, does not leave even the most demanding people indifferent.
Today Kaliningrad, as before, resembles Europe: small quiet streets and ancient buildings, all in the best traditions of East Prussia. And this is not surprising: it was on its territory that Königsberg was located, and you cannot escape the past.
Sights of Kaliningrad
If you are planning to visit this city, it is better to make a plan in advance of the must-see attractions, since upon arrival you will most likely be confused: many interesting places beckon visitors to plunge into the historical and cultural whirlpool.
There are museums and libraries, theaters and cathedrals, as well as a zoo, a botanical garden and much more. You can dwell in more detail on several truly special places in Kaliningrad. Read about it here.
Cathedral
Moving further through the history of the change in the appearance of Kaliningrad and its attractions, it is worth highlighting, perhaps, the main city symbol - the Cathedral. Its complex was founded by the clergyman Johannes Claret in 1333, but was supplemented and decorated until the 17th century.
In addition to its main purpose, unique books from the Wallenrod Library were kept here. In the 26th century, the famous Albertina University was located nearby, and a tomb appeared inside - the last refuge for the masters of the Teutonic Order, prominent dignitaries, bishops of Samland and professors of the University of Königsberg.
It is in it that Emmanuel Kant is buried. His granite memorial to this day attracts admirers of the great philosopher. Like most of the old buildings in Königsberg, the Cathedral was almost destroyed: almost all the external and internal decoration did not survive, almost only the walls remained.
Restoration began only in the 90s, and now houses a Protestant and Orthodox parish, a museum presenting objects from the townspeople of the past, the history of the complex and the life of Kant, as well as the largest organ in Europe.
There is an interesting clock inside the tower. Despite their usual Gothic appearance, they are quite modern: they are now based on a mechanism that allows you to track the exact time via satellite.
Numerous museums and exhibitions will help you relax after a walk through historical monuments and take a break from contemplating the varied city architecture. One of the most famous is the Amber Museum, which reveals to visitors all the secrets of the wonderful stone called Alatyr.
It opened its doors in 1979, and, remarkably, settled not in an ordinary and boring building, but in a neo-Gothic tower from 1853. The Kaliningrad Museum is the only one in Russia dedicated to this mysterious stone.
Inside there are 28 halls and five sections are constantly working, where you can not only admire amber, but also learn about its origin: here is the complete history of the scientific study of this solar stone, its transformation and depiction in the works of artists and craftsmen since the Neolithic, as well as local amber industry.
In addition to educational activities, the museum also conducts scientific and publishing activities. Biennials are held annually with lectures and reports from staff, and the works of scientists and researchers are published and translated into English.
Another must-see site is the Museum of the World Ocean. We can safely say that it is the best in the city, interesting not only for children, but also for adults.
Here you will see both banal exhibition showcases and many interactive objects with which you can interact. Among the exhibits there are even real famous ships, for example, “Vityaz”.
In the main building you can see large aquariums with sea inhabitants. The unusual exhibition buildings “Warehouse” and “Maritime Koenigsberg” are located a little further away; in them you will see exhibitions dedicated to the history of this glorious Baltic port.
In addition to the various museum ships and boats located along the entire embankment of the main part of the complex, there is a unique museum exhibit - “Cosmonaut Viktor Patsayev”. This is a real ship, which was previously used for space communications, and then was transferred to the ownership of the complex. In addition, you can see shipyards, fishing loggers, and even pre-nuclear submarines.
In the near future, a new part of the complex – “Planet Ocean” – will be completed. It will include a glazed atrium and galleries with multiple tiers, in which new exhibitions and storage for the fund will be organized.
Another rather interesting place is the Fishing Village. Despite its youth (only 9 years), it has already won an honorable place on the list of interesting attractions.
The complex consists of 14 objects and is reminiscent of the pre-war past of old Koenigsberg. The architecture of the fish market, Gothic towers and even benches with lanterns - all this diversity is antique and attracts tourists with its photogenicity.
The famous bridge over the Pregolya River is also located here. This pedestrian crossing is deservedly considered a separate attraction, and locals also call it one of the most romantic places.
You can take a boat ride along the same river and fully enjoy the spirit of the German past. If this is not enough, then from the Mayak tower, on the territory of the complex, there is a stunning view of the entire city.
Curonian Spit National Park
The Curonian Spit is a sandy peninsula, the coast of which stretches from Zelenogradsk to Lithuania. For many years, tourists have been coming here not only from all over Russia, but also from Lithuania and Germany. All of them are attracted here by the unique nature and purity of the Baltic coast.
And this is not surprising, because where else will you find such diversity: here there are meadows, pine forests, birch forests, sand dunes, and sea waves.
A unique place that allows you to plunge into both the fresh water of the Curonian Lagoon and the salty waters of the Baltic in one day. This territory belongs to two countries - Russia and Lithuania. On the domestic part of the spit there are several residential areas, including the villages of Rybachy, Lesnoy and Morskoye. All of them are part of the territories of the Zelenograd region.
As for the park itself, it was founded in 1987 and is currently included in the list of the oldest not only in the Kaliningrad region, but throughout the country. And its miniature size does not at all prevent the reserve from receiving several hundred tourists every year.
Despite the special national status of the park, everything here is done for the convenience of guests. And special boards with maps and diagrams located along the paths on all routes will help you navigate the area.
Do not forget that lighting fires and cutting down trees is prohibited on the territory of the complex. You can't even pick plants here. All these measures are aimed at preserving the special layer of soil and the balance of this unique natural area.
Kaliningrad Zoo
If you love animals, then you should definitely visit the Kaliningrad Zoo. Next year the complex will celebrate its 120th birthday, and during this time a wide variety of representatives of animal fauna from all over the world have been gathered here. There are even Ceylon elephants and white rhinoceros.
Not only children, but also adults will be surprised by all the diversity presented, because the “population” of the zoo includes about 276 species of animals, 178 of which are listed in the Red Book.
The scale is truly amazing. On the territory of the complex there are several departments dedicated to different sections of wildlife. You can take a tour to just one, or you can leisurely walk and see everything.
A distinctive feature of the Kaliningrad Zoo is the aquarium. Yes, the real one, which presents over 70 species of sea and river inhabitants. Here you can even see blue dolphins.
But even this, the founders of the park did not stop there - a separate room here is equipped with a terrarium with snakes, crocodiles, lizards, iguanas and other reptiles. If you visit the zoo in the summer season, you will even see caimans and large turtles roaming freely in the outdoor enclosures.
The park complex also has an arboretum with unique specimens of flora, and at the entrance you will be greeted by a gikngo. This relict tree is considered the same age as dinosaurs!
Amalienau district and famous buildings
Over the last century, the architectural appearance of the Baltic Gates has undergone many changes. The historical center was almost completely destroyed during American bombing and assault by Soviet soldiers in 1944-1945.
In peacetime, post-war, the policy of the authorities and the mood of society also did not contribute to the preservation of the German development of the city. The buildings were not restored, but were demolished and rebuilt according to new standards: “Khrushchev” and nine-story panel buildings appeared en masse.
Only in the seventies of the twentieth century did the attitude towards the Koenigsberg heritage change, and restoration of the most iconic of the remaining objects began.
Now, if you want to feel the atmosphere of European Kaliningrad, then the best place for this is the Amalienau region. In the past, it was an elite quarter with expensive villas and mansions along winding streets that are not “Russian-style”. Now it is a place of pilgrimage for tourists who want to see the architecture of former luxury.
The decoration of the local houses is dominated by Art Nouveau, although Renaissance and ordinary classics are also found. They differ not only in style, but also in the degree of sophistication. Before the First World War, local buildings were built slowly and expensively, such as the former villas Schmidt, Leo and Makowski.
They now attract visitors with their beauty. Other mansions built in the post-war period received a completely different look: the priority of cheapness and speed made them much less pretentious.
Near Amalienau there is a Lithuanian square and a central park of culture and recreation, which has become a favorite place of entertainment for local residents thanks to its attractions for children and adults, as well as monuments to V. Vysotsky and Baron Munchausen.
Zelenogradsk
If you decide to visit the Curonian Spit Park, be sure to check out Zelenogradsk. This small town, located just 32 kilometers from Kaliningrad, was founded back in 1252, when there was a fishing village in its place. This makes it the oldest holiday destination on the Baltic coast.
Over the course of its history, the city of Kranz (that’s what it was called until 1946) literally grew from a tavern into a royal resort. Today it has the status of republican significance, and its coast is covered with numerous sanatoriums and boarding houses, which annually receive a huge number of people who want not only to relax, but also to improve their health with clay baths, salty air and the waters of the sea bay.
And this is no coincidence, because initially the resort developed as a balneological and mud resort: the unique peat of the Krantsevo swamp is used here. The Zelenogradsk beach also deserves special attention.
A small, gentle slope, golden sand and the famous “frying pans” - fields between the dunes, inaccessible to the wind - all this makes this place attractive to both visitors and local residents.
The sights of Kaliningrad do not end with this list; in this wonderful city there are hundreds and thousands of other places that will not leave indifferent even the most experienced and discerning travelers.
Therefore, if you are still not sure whether to come here, then do not hesitate. Having enjoyed all the beauties of the former German Königsberg, you will definitely sincerely fall in love with this truly Russian pearl of the Baltic.
Video trip around the city of Kaliningrad
What to see in one day
Read about it here.
Other sights of Kaliningrad photo gallery
Sculpture “Fighting bison” 
Sculpture “Cat and Three Birds” 
Monument to the cat “La Murka” in the southern part of the Fishing Village 
Sculpture “Sailor's Wife” 
Photos of Kaliningrad
Kaliningrad is one of the most interesting and colorful cities in Russia. In some respects, it can be considered unique: the Russian enclave, surrounded by Lithuania and Poland, preserves a rich medieval history that has connected Europe and Russia for centuries. Tourism plays an important role here, so there is always something to see in Kaliningrad, and you can also find good accommodation, both from private individuals and in hotels. For lovers of history, European architecture, as well as quiet streets and squares, Kaliningrad will be a wonderful choice for a trip. However, with so many attractions and simply beautiful places, it is better to prepare in advance, because it is very difficult to see it all in a short time. We will try to help you with this and answer the question: what to see in Kaliningrad?
12 best sights in Kaliningrad
1. Cathedral in Kaliningrad
Kaliningrad, as the pearl of Prussia, which was once far from being the last German city, has preserved a significant number of architectural monuments and simply authentic features of burgher Germany. Therefore, our list of must-see attractions in Kaliningrad can start with the Cathedral. This structure is the most recognizable reminder of that era and attracts crowds of tourists every year. Restored by the end of the 20th century, it became a symbol of the city and the main part of the excursion program, as well as a venue for concerts of classical and church music. Kanta Island, where the temple is located, is an excellent place for hiking.
2. Amalienau
The famous old German district of Kaliningrad was deliberately designed in violation of Prussian canons of urban development, so the streets here bend and none of them intersects the other at right angles. The houses of Amalienau are built in Art Nouveau style, although Renaissance and Classicist architecture can be found, adding a noticeable contrast. Almost every house was made according to an individual project, and was decorated with sculptures, bas-reliefs and weather vanes. But the area was not rebuilt before the outbreak of the First World War, and after that the construction was not so sophisticated. The emphasis was on speed and low cost. Now the villas and mansions of influential people of the past remain only as an example of pre-war luxurious life, which anyone can get acquainted with.
3. Kaliningrad Zoo
Rhinoceroses and tigers, snakes and monkeys, zebras and kangaroos... Where can you look at such a variety of representatives of the animal kingdom? Of course, in the Kaliningrad Zoo - one of the largest and oldest in modern Russia. The collection numbers almost 2,500 animals, including those listed in the Red Book. Visiting this attraction in Kaliningrad will be interesting not only for children, but also for adults. At the entrance to the zoo, guests will be greeted by ginkgo - an ancient relic and the same age as dinosaurs. The Kaliningrad Zoo boasts not only its fauna, but also a wonderful arboretum with unique plants. You can take a fascinating walk around the zoo on your own or book a sightseeing tour.
4. Church of the Holy Family
It will be very interesting see in Kaliningrad Church, which is an amazing combination of a cultural venue, a religious site and an architectural monument. Built at the beginning of the 20th century in a consistent neo-Gothic style, borrowing the best features of medieval Teutonic architecture, the building is distinguished by a high tower spire, as well as a large number of contrasting decorative elements. In the best Catholic traditions, the heart of the cathedral is a huge organ, and the acoustics of the interior spaces are thought out to the smallest detail. The landmark, damaged during the war, was restored and became part of the regional philharmonic society, turning the religious site into a popular cultural center where organ music festivals are regularly held.
5. Royal Gate
There are seven city gates in Kaliningrad, but the first ones worth seeing are the Royal ones, named after the street on which they were located. This building was built back in the 19th century. on the site of the ancient Gumbinnen Gate for defense, but it did not perform this function for so long, and in the twentieth century. The Koenigsberg military department decided to sell the building to the city. At first, the arch was an important city landmark, but it was soon forgotten and the place lost its original beauty. We remembered the construction again only in preparation for the 750th anniversary of Kaliningrad. The building was not just restored, but became the main symbol of the holiday, attracting many tourists today.
6. Holy Cross Cathedral
As we have already seen above, there is something to see in Kaliningrad for lovers of religious attractions. The next beautiful place in this category is the Holy Cross Cathedral. This beautiful architectural monument is one of the latest examples of Lutheran architecture. During the war years, the building was practically not damaged, but still suffered partial destruction: the dome of one of the towers burned down. After many chaotic reconstructions, the foundation could not stand it and sank, cracks appeared along the walls. The building almost fell into disrepair until in the nineties it was transferred to the community of the Russian Orthodox Church, thanks to which it became known as the Cathedral of the Exaltation of the Cross. Now a unique amber iconostasis is kept here, which, in addition to its beautiful appearance, attracts tourists.
7. Friedrichsburg Gate
Among the attractions of Kaliningrad, you must see the luxurious Friedrichsburg Gate. The building is made in a reinterpreted neo-Gothic style and consists of an arch with wooden doors. This is the only non-city gate that led to the Friedrichsburg fortress, famous for the fact that Peter I himself once studied artillery science here.
During World War II, the Friedrichsburg Gate received significant damage and was in a deplorable state for a long time until it was transferred to the Museum of the World Ocean. Since then, the landmark has received a second life, turning into a hot tourist spot in Kaliningrad.
8. Rossgarten Gate
This superbly preserved monument of Kaliningrad can be seen on the current Marshal Vasilevsky Square. Once upon a time, documents were checked here and taxes were collected from visitors. Now the building serves as a fish restaurant, but the building has still retained its historical significance. The transformation of many historical places into public places is typical for Kaliningrad. Among the decorative elements, one can note high reliefs of military figures of the 18th-19th centuries.
9. Brandenburg Gate
Also in Kaliningrad, an architectural monument of the 17th century has been preserved - the Brandenburg Gate, which once opened the way to the ancient Brandenburg Castle of the same name. Fans of exact sciences will remember that in the 18th century, Leonhard Euler, thanks to the bridges of Königsberg, founded an entire branch of mathematics. Unfortunately, not all bridges have survived since then, and they have all been rebuilt many times, especially in the 20th century. An interesting fact is that the Brandenburg Gate is still functioning and performs a transport function. Be that as it may, every tourist should see this landmark in Kaliningrad.
10. Fishing village
If you want to see a stunning panorama of Kaliningrad, head to the ethnographic and craft district of Rybnaya Derevnya. There is a view tower “Mayak” with an observation deck, and the block itself is built up with houses in the German style. Gothic castles in the background make for great memorable photos. Not only the authenticity of pre-war Konigsberg, Kant’s birthplace, attracts tourists here, but also a certain romantic mood that these small European streets create. Lovers often make appointments and stroll here. The coloring of old Western Europe stands out as a very significant contrast in our familiar native environment.
11. Submarine museum B-413
While moving around Kaliningrad, be sure to see a unique and tempting attraction - the B-413 submarine museum. This is a real warship, which served in the late 60s, retained its original appearance and was turned into a museum. For lovers of history and sophisticated technology, the submarine will provide an opportunity to see the complex equipment and weapons of a submarine, and will also allow you to touch the life of the toughest sea dogs - submariners. The museum was opened in 2000 and is dedicated to the people who created the domestic submarine fleet - military designers. The submarine is in exactly the same condition in which it completed its combat service. Museum guests have a rare opportunity to independently evaluate the interior of the ship and even look through the periscope.
12. Upside Down House
The upside-down house in Kaliningrad is the last attraction on our list, which is of great tourist interest. And although the attraction was opened not so long ago, it is already very popular among both city residents and tourists. The two-story building already attracts attention with its appearance - the foundation faces the sky, and there is a house on the roof. Once you get inside, the whole world will be turned upside down. All the objects are on the ceiling, the doghouse was upside down. For some, walking around the cottage causes strong sensations, even dizziness and swaying - everything here is so unusual for the human brain. In general, this is a very interesting place to visit, since you can’t see something like this everywhere.
As we see, there will be something to see in Kaliningrad tourists with different tastes and preferences. Go there and see for yourself!
The Kaliningrad region is the westernmost region of Russia. This is the former state of the crusaders, who left their descendants many fortified cities, the former Prussian state, part of the Third Reich, which joined the USSR in 1945.
The Kaliningrad region is the birthplace of amber, given to people by the waters of the Baltic Sea. Its coast attracts with its beautiful natural places, wandering dunes, swamps and meadows, coniferous thickets and alder forests.
Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit Natural Park is a unique and beautiful place in the Kaliningrad region, a real museum of natural areas, where coniferous forests, deserts and birch forests replace each other in a small space. About 600 species of vegetation grow in the park, and about 300 species of animals live in these places.
The ancient migration route of birds also passes along the Curonian Spit; more than 150 species fly from the north of Europe to the south every year; up to 1 million birds can fly over the spit during a day of migration. The oldest ornithological station in Europe is also located here - Fringilla, founded in the village of Rybachy in 1901.
The spit separates the freshwater Curonian Lagoon and the salty Baltic Sea with a narrow strip, its width ranges from 4 to 400 km, and its length is 98 km. This beautiful and unique place is named after the Curonians, an ancient tribe that lived here before the Germans colonized Prussia. In 1987, one of the first national parks in Russia was organized on the spit to protect its fragile natural system, and in 2000 it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Dancing forest
The Curonian Spit also has its own unique and mysterious place - the Dancing Forest. This is a small area of pine forest, occupied by hundreds of intricately twisted trees. The trunks are not just bent - they are woven into rings and hearts, twisted into spirals and spread out on the ground.
No one knows for sure what led to such a beautiful but strange transformation. There are many versions - from the impact of the larvae of a special pest of pine trees that affects the central shoot, to groundwater or special energy anomalies. This is a unique forest not only in the Kaliningrad region, but throughout the world.
Amber
The small seaside town of Yantarny in the Kaliningrad region is a unique and charming place. Its main feature is that it is here that the largest deposits of amber in the world are located (according to some estimates, 90% of the world's reserves).
The city of Yantarny (Palmniken until 1947) was founded in 1654, and even then the amber fishery was the main source of income for local residents, along with fishing.
One of the most beautiful buildings in the ancient city is the Lutheran Church built in 1892, built from huge boulders.
Inside the church was decorated in the Romanesque style, there was an organ and 2 bells. In 1991, the church building was transferred to the Russian Orthodox Church and consecrated as the Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God.
The Amber Castle in the city of the same name is the most famous amber museum in the world, located in a 14th-century building that was once part of the Palmniken fortress. The most interesting exhibit of the museum is an amber pyramid as tall as a man.
Vishtynets Lake
Lake Vishtynetskoe or Vishtytis is a beautiful glacial lake on the border of the Kaliningrad region and Lithuania. This place is often called European Baikal for the transparency of its water - up to 6-8 m, which is not typical for small bodies of water. The area of the lake is 18 km2, and the maximum depth is 54 m.
The waters of the lake are home to 22 species of fish, including vendace, lake whitefish, burbot, European eel, pike, tench, and roach. About 150 species of invertebrates were discovered, including mollusks, microscopic crustaceans, etc. Ducks and swans nest in the Great Vishtitis Bay.
In 1975, the lake was classified as a natural monument and a natural reserve with an area of 335 km2 was organized around this amazingly beautiful place. The main goal of the reserve is to preserve the diversity of terrestrial vertebrates and conduct scientific research.
Temple of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia
In the city of Bagrationovsk, Kaliningrad region, there is one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches in these regions - the Temple of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia, erected on the top of a hill, from where 200 years ago (in 1807) Prince Bagration led military operations against the army of Napoleon and watched the retreat of Russian troops.
After the Second World War and until 1985, the Kaliningrad region was a spiritual desert - not a single functioning church or temple. In the former Preussisch-Eylau, now Bagrationovsk, the first priests from the Orthodox Church appeared only in the 1990s. The Temple of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia was founded on the day of remembrance of the holy martyrs in 1993 by the priest Father Demetrius, his wife and volunteer helpers.
In 1995, services were already held in the beautiful white-stone church, although finishing work was still in full swing. The solemn consecration of the throne and the entire temple took place in 1997. Since then, this beautiful place has become a real decoration of Bagrationovsk and the entire Kaliningrad region.
The Cathedral of Christ the Savior, located on Victory Square in Kaliningrad, is the main Orthodox church in the city. It is an excellent example of Vladimir-Suzdal temple architecture. This magnificent structure, 73 meters high, can accommodate up to 3 thousand visitors.
It is interesting that the domes of the temple were supposed to be made of gilded plates - colossal money was allocated from the city budget for this, but after the first rains the “gilding” oxidized and the domes lost their color and shine and became covered with stains.
The interior of the temple is virtually absent and is represented only by a few icons placed on the plastered walls.
Its construction began in 1995. The consecration of the Upper Church took place in 2006, during the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the opening of the first Orthodox church in the city. The lower church was consecrated in 2007 - the “Memel” iconostasis, donated by the Holy Prince Vladimir Brotherhood from Germany, was installed here.
Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden in Kaliningrad is a scientific division of the Baltic Federal University. The garden is located on the territory of the former Königsberg Horticulture, which was founded in 1904 in the Maraunengof area by Professor Paul Kaeber as a base for practical training for students of the University of Königsberg.
The city's schools were supplied with plants from here for botany lessons. Visitors had the opportunity to get acquainted with an interesting dendrological collection, as well as a collection of medicinal, vegetable, flower and industrial crops. In horticulture there was a greenhouse complex and greenhouses.
Today, on the territory of the Botanical Garden, with an area of 13.57 hectares, there is a pond, greenhouses, greenhouses, a tree nursery, areas with plant collections and utility rooms. The collection fund of the Botanical Garden contains over 2,500 plant taxa. Here you can see 6 greenhouses of heat-loving plants, 4 exhibition departments - palm, tropical, subtropical, succulents. 39 tree species that grow in the Botanical Garden are listed in the Red Book.
What sights of Kaliningrad did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Kaliningrad Zoo
The Kaliningrad Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Russia, it is already more than a hundred years old. It is located in the very center of Kaliningrad and is considered one of the most popular city attractions.
The Kaliningrad Zoo was founded in 1896 by German businessman Hermann Klaas. The zoo flourished for a long time, but the Second World War dealt a strong blow to it - after the bloody battles for Kaliningrad, only four animals survived here. Fortunately, the zoo quickly restored the number of its pets, and today it houses more than 300 species of animals.
The Kaliningrad Zoo is also famous for its architectural delights. On its territory there are many old buildings and sculptures, and the building of the former elephant barn is recognized as an important monument of pre-war architecture.
The Kaliningrad Zoo is located in a protected area in the center of the city, occupies 16.7 hectares and is considered one of the greenest and most beautiful in Russia. Previously, in its place was the Koenigsberg Zoo, opened in 1896 and containing about a thousand specimens of animals of more than two hundred species.
Today it is a unique natural monument. The Kaliningrad Zoo has a wonderful arboretum with exotic plants and relict trees. Pre-war buildings have been preserved on the territory - the bracken, the lion coop, the bear cub. In the center of the zoo there is a magnificent fountain with jets 18 meters high.
The zoo hosts themed educational events, exciting holidays, lectures, special lessons, excursions, and conversations. For children, there are such entertainments as riding a road train, an electric car or a cart, a pony-drawn play complex, a trampoline, and a contact area with the opportunity to communicate with goats.
World Ocean Museum
The World Ocean Museum in Kaliningrad was opened on April 12, 1990. The museum is a scientific center that houses the world’s only space communications vessel, “Cosmonaut Viktor Patsayev.” The museum invites its visitors to get acquainted not only with the flora and fauna of the world's oceans, but also to learn about the history of naval construction in Russia.
The museum hosts thematic exhibitions dedicated to significant events in ocean exploration. The Museum of the World Ocean allows you to visit aboard research ships and present all the work to study the dark depths from the inside.
Amber Museum
The Amber Museum in Kaliningrad is rich in exhibits, since Kaliningrad is an amber deposit. The exhibitions in the museum show the works of both experienced and novice artists. All exhibits are long and delicate jewelry work.
Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University
The Baltic Federal University, named after Immanuel Kant, is the oldest university in the Kaliningrad region. It was formed almost simultaneously with the new region of Russia that appeared in the former East Prussia, which was conquered in 1945 by the Red Army. IKBFU named after Immanuel Kant is today's leading institution of higher education, as well as the largest educational and scientific center in the region.
IKBFU uses a building that once belonged to the famous Königsberg University. This building houses the faculties of geoecology, bioecology and geography. The purpose-built university campus houses an administrative building, several faculties and a swimming pool. The building of the German school named after Kraus and Hippel now houses the faculties of physical education and sports, as well as the faculties of economics, history and psychology.
The IKBFU has opened a museum telling the history of the Albertina (Königsberg University 1544-1944), the Kaliningrad Pedagogical Institute and the modern university.
Are you interested in knowing how well you know the sights of Kaliningrad? .
Kaliningrad airport
Khrabrovo International Airport is located near the village of the same name, twenty kilometers from the center of Kaliningrad. The airfield has an asphalt concrete runway 2.5 kilometers long and 45 meters wide, which can accommodate aircraft such as the Yak-42, as well as the Boeing 737 and Tu-154.
The Khrabrovo airfield is intended for joint deployment: in addition to civil aviation, it is used by the aviation of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the FSB and the Russian Ministry of Defense. This is the base of the transport squadron of the Baltic Fleet (An-24 and 26). It is also planned to create a hub here for passenger transportation to Western Europe in the future. A branch of the Primorskoe Ring highway leads to the airport.
The most popular attractions in Kaliningrad with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Kaliningrad on our website.
Individual and group
More sights of Kaliningrad
Every year more and more tourists come to the Kaliningrad region. These are mainly residents of Central Russia and its closest European neighbors. Even Ilya Varlamov ( varlamov.ru ), Kaliningrad took third place in the ranking of the most interesting, unusual and beautiful cities in Russia. First of all, tourists are attracted by the Baltic Sea, resort towns, the unique Curonian Spit, architectural monuments of German heritage, as well as the proximity of Europe.
No matter what evil tongues say, Kaliningrad is slowly but surely transforming. The streets are becoming cleaner, roads and sidewalks are being repaired, cycling infrastructure is being developed, house facades and architectural monuments are being restored, sports and children's playgrounds are being opened, new parks are being created, etc.
Most local travel agencies offer visiting tourists excursions only to standard city attractions, without considering routes around the region at all. But it is outside of Kaliningrad that there are many unique objects and historical monuments. In addition, every day, such a sector of the tourism industry as agritourism is becoming more relevant.
There are several reasons why travel agencies do not favor the region. This is, first of all, in contrast to city attractions, the severe neglect of facilities, the lack of any infrastructure, insufficient knowledge of guides, etc.
Yes, of course, there are travel agencies in Kaliningrad that offer tours around the region, but often most of them come down to a quick inspection of this or that castle, a visit to the local museum, and that’s probably all... But, every day, it becomes more and more more and more tourists who are attracted by unique author’s tours that allow them to see and experience much more.
The first object on the route was Tapiau Castle in the city of Gvardeysk (formerly German) Tapiau), founded in 1265. Due to the fact that in the post-war period it housed a prison, the ancient part of the castle, as well as all the buildings from the beginning of the 20th century, were preserved in excellent condition.
The castle is famous for the fact that he spent part of his life and died in it. Albrecht of Brandenburg-Ansbach of Hohenzollern, last Grand Master of the Teutonic Order and first Duke of Prussia, founder of the University of Königsberg" Albertina".
Next, our path lies to Znamensk (formerly German. Wehlau), located 50 kilometers from Kaliningrad at the confluence of the Lava (Alle) River into the Pregolya. Previously, it was a regional center in the administrative district of Königsberg. In 1255, after the raid on Sambia, the Prussians built the castle-fortress of Vetau or Vetalo ("Water Castle") here, with the aim of confronting the Teutonic Order.
Velau was captured by the Soviet Army on January 23, 1945. During Soviet times, Velau was demoted to the level of an urban village. This same status remains today.
Nothing reminds us of the castle today, but the village has many extremely interesting objects, the most important of which can safely be called Allenberg Psychiatric Clinic(German) Provinzial Heil und Pflegeanstalt Allenberg). The gigantic complex of buildings was built in the Wehlau suburb of Allenberg and was the largest in East Prussia. By the beginning of the Second World War, there were about 1,400 mentally ill people here.
The clinic was heavily stigmatized in 1940, when several hundred patients were killed here by SS units. Today, the gloomy buildings of wards and operating rooms make a depressing impression.
Until 2013, 4 military units were stationed on the territory of the complex, so the buildings are well preserved. The site is currently abandoned and closed to public access.
Another interesting object in Znamensk - Order Church of St. Jacob, built in the 14th century. The ruins of the church are impressive in their size and massiveness. The building has withstood many blows of fate. People escaped from the plague in it in 1549, 1602, 1710. The fires of 1546, 1659, 1673, 1736 consumed wooden objects. Numerous wars have left traces of impacts from arrows, cannonballs, shells and bombs.
At the crossroads of the two largest regional highways Kaliningrad - Chernyakhovsk (A-229) and Talpaki - Sovetsk (A-216) there is a cheburek shop famous throughout the region, as well as beyond its borders. The establishment has its own history and unique, truly European, modern service.
You can have a delicious lunch and dinner here on an excursion tour. In the future, on the pages of my blog, I will talk about the past, present and future of this establishment in detail.
By the way, across the road from the establishment are the ruins of the Teutonic castle Taplaken (German). Taplacken), which can also be viewed.
We turn onto the road leading to the border with the Republic of Lithuania and the next object on our route is Parnenen estate and an old mill in the village of Krasny Yar (formerly German. Parnehnen). In the 19th century, the estate belonged to local landowner and Reichstag deputy Ludwig von Massau-Parnen.
12. Ancient mill.
The village of Novokolkhoznoye (formerly German) Neu Argeningken/Argenbrück). It is worth visiting the church, built in 1910. The church's spire was knocked down by advancing Red Army units in 1945.
Sovetsk(formerly German) Tilsit), the second largest city in the Kaliningrad region, has a huge number of attractions and a real full-fledged pedestrian street. On June 25-27, 1807, negotiations were held here between the emperors of Russia - Alexander I and France - Napoleon I Bonaparte. The city is very beautiful, so it’s worth staying a little longer.
14. Monument to the Tilsit tram, installed in August 2012.
Undoubtedly, the main attraction of Sovetsk is the ancient border Queen Louise Bridge across the Neman River.
In addition to walking around the city, we were able to get acquainted with the mysterious dungeons of Tilsit and visit inside the giant water tower of the 19th century.
On the way to the city of Neman, next on our route, there is a tiny village Kotelnikovo, in which the 1044th Anti-Aircraft Missile Red Banner Air Defense Regiment was stationed. The site is currently abandoned and marked with signs of radioactive contamination. A great place for unusual photos.
Near the city itself there is another village - Michurinskoye (formerly German. Althof Ragnit). Here is located Baron von Mack's estate, built in 1860. The baron was engaged in breeding Trakehner horses and had a livestock of 1,500 horses. An extensive dendrological park with trees brought from all over the world was laid out around the estate. There was also a deep and clean pond there. The estate hosted annual East Prussian meetings and lavish balls. Unfortunately, on May 10, 2014, the estate burned down and today presents a sad sight. Her further fate is unknown.
We are already in Neman(formerly German) Ragnit). Here is a unique and unusual building for the entire region - the former " Gemeinshafthouse"("Community House"). The building, previously decorated with a huge eagle and flags with a swastika, is well preserved. Its appearance is stylized as an order church, which gives the right to claim to some local historians that initially the building still had religious significance and belonged to the Christian sect of the Mennonites .
The most interesting object of the Neman is Order castle Ragnit, built in the 14th - 15th centuries. The castle, located in the very center of the city, was well preserved after the war, but was thoughtlessly almost turned into ruins by specialists from the Lenfilm film studio in 1976, who filmed the film “Twenty Days Without War” here.
After a series of tragic events, access to the ruins of the castle was closed, but lovers of real extreme sports can try to climb the preserved clock tower of the castle forburg, which offers a gorgeous view of both the castle itself and the city.
And we are already heading back towards the city of Chernyakhovsk, the third largest city in the region. In the village of Nagornoye (formerly German. Geswethen) there is a famous estate where on May 26, 1818, on the way to Wiesbaden, the Russian Field Marshal died Mikhail Bogdanovich Barclay de Tolly. For a long time the estate was abandoned until the complex was bought by a famous businessman Viktor Baturin, brother of Elena Baturina, the wife of former Moscow mayor Yuri Luzhkov. Baturin restored the building and also restored the nearby stables.
However, a little later, he became involved in a high-profile criminal case, which did not allow the building to be completely restored. The estate lost its owners, was plundered and fell into disrepair again. Her further fate is unknown.
The last object on our route was Georgenburg Castle(German) Georgenburg) near Chernyakhovsk, founded in 1350 by the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order Winrich von Kniprode. In 1364, 1376 and 1403 the castle was destroyed by the Lithuanians. In 1657, the castle was severely damaged during a Tatar raid, and in 1679 it was occupied by the Swedes. Today the castle is guarded by enthusiasts who somehow support life in it and conduct excursions. A small museum is organized in the castle, and in the basements a medieval torture chamber is displayed to the attention of visitors.
Our route included visiting four more interesting sites. These are the two Bismarck Towers, Insterburg Castle (German). Insterburg) in Chernyakhovsk and the ruins of the episcopal castle of Saalau (German). Saalau) in the village Kamenskoye. However, this time, it was decided to skip these objects due to temporary overlaps. But we will definitely visit these places next time, and also visit other, no less interesting, places in the Kaliningrad region. As for the objects that I told you about today, over time, on the pages of my blog, separate detailed reports on them will be published. See you again!
I express my gratitude to the tour operator" Color"and our guide Evgeniy, for organizing this trip.