Russia has a population of about 143,420,309 people. According to www.cia.gov, the Country’s population is composed of 79.8% Russians, 3.8 Tatar, 2% Ukrainian, 1.2% Bashkir, 1.1% Chuvash and various minorities.

Language:

Russian is the national language spoken here, though a number of indigenous groups have their own dialects which vary in different regions.

Culture:

The People of Russia have managed to maintain their unique culture over the years against the tide of “western world civilization” and there is still a strong sense of community mindedness. Local culture is celebrated and still widely practiced especially in the villages and farms. The Country has had a long history of theater and performing arts. There is a theater in almost every town where plays and other acts are a source of entertainment for locals.

Religion:

The Russian Orthodox Church is the largest religious denomination in the Country. Islam is also widely practiced.

Sport:

Russia is a major sporting nation. The Country has produced a number of world class teams and athletes who dominate various disciplines including; gymnastics, swimming, tennis, athletics, football and ice hockey. The Country has excellent sporting facilities and specialist training schools for potential future stars. Famous sportspeople from Russia are; Alexander Popov: one of the best freestyle swimmers in the world, Marat Safin winner of the Australian Open in 2005 and the latest teenage tennis sensation Maria Sharapova.