The UNESCO Sites in Russia have resulted from the recognition of 30 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Russia and 32 locations on the Russia UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Russia are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 30 sites on the Russia UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Russia are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Russia tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Russia.
Russia UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Russia
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Russia
There are 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Russia. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad
- Assumption Cathedral and Monastery of the town-island of Sviyazhsk
- Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex
- Church of the Ascension, Kolomenskoye
- Churches of the Pskov School of Architecture
- Citadel, Ancient City and Fortress Buildings of Derbent
- Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands
- Curonian Spit
- Ensemble of the Ferapontov Monastery
- Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent
- Historic and Architectural Complex of the Kazan Kremlin
- Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments
- Historic Monuments of Novgorod and Surroundings
- Historical Centre of the City of Yaroslavl
- Kizhi Pogost
- Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow
- Petroglyphs of Lake Onega and the White Sea
- Struve Geodetic Arc
- White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal
- Central Sikhote-Alin
- Golden Mountains of Altai
- Lake Baikal
- Landscapes of Dauria
- Lena Pillars Nature Park
- Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
- Putorana Plateau
- Uvs Nuur Basin
- Virgin Komi Forests
- Volcanoes of Kamchatka
- Western Caucasus
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Russia are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad
The Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Sergiev Posad, approximately 70 km northeast of Moscow, Russia. The site is home to one of the most important monasteries in Russia and is considered the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church. The ensemble features stunning architectural and artistic works, including the lavra’s majestic cathedrals, chapels, and bell towers. The lavra’s walls and gates also feature intricate carvings and frescoes, highlighting the unique artistic traditions of medieval Russia. The site is an important pilgrimage destination for Orthodox Christians and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Russian history and culture.
Assumption Cathedral and Monastery of the town-island of Sviyazhsk
The Assumption Cathedral and Monastery of the town-island of Sviyazhsk is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia. It was founded in 1551 by Ivan the Terrible and is a well-preserved example of 16th-century Russian architecture and culture. The site includes the impressive Assumption Cathedral, which features frescoes and iconostases considered some of the finest examples of medieval Russian art. The site also includes several other buildings, such as a bell tower, a refectory, and monastic cells. The Assumption Cathedral and Monastery of the town island of Sviyazhsk is a significant cultural and religious site in Russia and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Russian history and architecture.
Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex
The Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia. The complex includes the ancient city of Bolgar, a significant center of the Volga-Kama region during the Middle Ages. The site features the city’s well-preserved archaeological and architectural remains, including the ruins of ancient walls and fortifications, mosques, bathhouses, and other public buildings. The site also showcases the fusion of Islamic and local cultures in the region and provides insight into the history of the Volga-Kama region during the Middle Ages. The Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex is a unique and important cultural landmark in Russia and attracts visitors worldwide.
Church of the Ascension, Kolomenskoye
The Church of the Ascension, located in the Kolomenskoye district of Moscow, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a beautiful and well-preserved example of traditional Russian architecture. The church was built in 1532 on the orders of Tsar Ivan IV (also known as Ivan the Terrible) to celebrate the birth of his son, and it stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of the early modern era in Russia.
The church is known for its unique tented roof, adorned with intricate patterns and colorful tiles. The church’s interior is equally stunning, with frescoes and paintings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The Church of the Ascension is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Russia.
Churches of the Pskov School of Architecture
The Churches of the Pskov School of Architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Pskov Region of Russia. The site features several well-preserved churches and monasteries that were built during the 15th and 16th centuries, showcasing the unique architectural style of the Pskov School. The churches and monasteries feature intricate brickwork, frescoes, and other decorative elements characteristic of the Pskov School. The site is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval architecture and Russian history.
Citadel, Ancient City, and Fortress Buildings of Derbent
The Citadel, Ancient City, and Fortress Buildings of Derbent is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Republic of Dagestan, Russia. The site is home to a series of fortifications that date back to the 6th century and played a crucial role in defending the region against invaders from the north and south.
The fortifications include the ancient city of Derbent, the citadel of Naryn-Kala, and the fortress of Dagestan. The site is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Juma Mosque, the oldest mosque in Russia, and the Sassanid Palace, which dates back to the 5th century. The Citadel, Ancient City, and Fortress Buildings of Derbent are a testament to the region’s rich history and culture and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient architecture and fortifications.
Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands
The Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the White Sea, north of Russia. The Solovetsky archipelago comprises six islands, which have been inhabited since the 5th millennium BCE. The site is home to several architectural and cultural treasures, including the Solovetsky Monastery, founded in the 15th century and an important center of spirituality and culture throughout Russian history. The site also includes other historic buildings, fortifications, and churches that showcase the region’s rich history and architectural heritage. The Solovetsky Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the coast of the Baltic Sea, shared by Russia and Lithuania. This unique natural feature is a long, narrow dune peninsula stretching 98 kilometers along the coast. The Curonian Spit is a place of exceptional natural beauty, with stunning views of the sea, forests, and dunes. It is also home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species. The site is an important bird migration route, and visitors can witness the impressive spectacle of thousands of birds flying overhead. The Curonian Spit is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, hiking, and birdwatching.
Ensemble of the Ferapontov Monastery
The Ensemble of the Ferapontov Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Vologda Oblast region of Russia. The monastery was founded in the 14th century and is home to some of the most well-preserved examples of medieval Russian architecture and art.
The monastery complex includes several buildings, such as the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin, the Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower, which showcase intricate frescoes and iconography. The frescoes are particularly noteworthy for their use of vivid colors and intricate details, making them an important example of Russian art during the Middle Ages. The Ensemble of the Ferapontov Monastery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval architecture and art in Russia.
Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent
The Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Moscow, Russia. The site features a well-preserved 16th-century convent built as a tribute to the victory of Russia over the Khanate of Kazan. The convent is home to several stunning structures, including the Smolensk Cathedral, the Church of the Intercession, and the bell tower, which offers a beautiful example of Baroque and Muscovite architecture.
The site also contains several important historical and cultural artifacts, including the tombs of figures such as Boris Godunov and Peter the Great’s half-sister Sophia. The Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent is an important cultural and historical site in Russia and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Russian history and architecture.
Historic and Architectural Complex of the Kazan Kremlin
The Historic and Architectural Complex of the Kazan Kremlin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kazan, Russia. The complex is a well-preserved example of Tatar architecture and culture from the 10th to the 16th century. The Kazan Kremlin includes several notable landmarks, such as the Annunciation Cathedral, the leaning Soyembika Tower, and the iconic Spasskaya Tower.
The complex is also home to several museums and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Kazan and the Tatar people. The Historic and Architectural Complex of the Kazan Kremlin is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Russian and Tatar history and architecture.
Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments
The Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The site consists of a collection of buildings, palaces, and monuments that reflect the city’s history and cultural significance. The historic center is home to various architectural styles, including Baroque, neoclassical, and Art Nouveau. It includes landmarks such as the Winter Palace, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and the Church of the Savior on Blood. The site represents an outstanding example of urban planning and architecture and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture.
Historic Monuments of Novgorod and Surroundings
The Historic Monuments of Novgorod and Surroundings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Veliky Novgorod, Russia. The site includes several well-preserved medieval monuments and buildings that date back to the 11th century, including the Cathedral of St. Sophia, the Novgorod Kremlin, and the Church of the Transfiguration. These monuments are a testament to Novgorod’s rich history and cultural heritage, which was once one of the most important centers of trade and culture in medieval Russia. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture, intricate frescoes, and ancient artifacts preserved for centuries.
Historical Centre of the City of Yaroslavl
The Historical Centre of the City of Yaroslavl is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Yaroslavl, Russia. The city is known for its well-preserved architectural ensemble from the 17th century, which reflects the cultural and artistic achievements of the region during that time. The site includes several notable buildings, such as the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery, the Church of Elijah the Prophet, and the Church of St. John the Baptist. These buildings showcase the unique style of the Yaroslavl School of Architecture and Art, which combines traditional Russian and Western European styles. The Historical Centre of the City of Yaroslavl is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.
Kizhi Pogost
Kizhi Pogost is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the island of Kizhi in Russia. The site is home to an ensemble of wooden structures showcasing traditional Russian wooden architecture, including two 18th-century churches and a bell tower. The structures were built without nails and are notable for their intricate carpentry and elaborate decorations. The site is also home to a museum that provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the region. Kizhi Pogost is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Russian architecture and craftsmanship.
Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow
The Kremlin and Red Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Moscow, Russia. The site is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, including the Kremlin, the Red Square, and the St. Basil’s Cathedral. The Kremlin is a complex of historic buildings that served as the residence of the Russian tsars and later, the Soviet leaders.
The Red Square is a historic public square that has played a significant role in Russian history, hosting events such as military parades, political rallies, and festivals. The St. Basil’s Cathedral is a unique architectural masterpiece with colorful onion-shaped domes and intricate designs. The Kremlin and Red Square are must-visit destinations for anyone interested in Russian history, architecture, and culture.
Petroglyphs of Lake Onega and the White Sea
The Petroglyphs of Lake Onega and the White Sea are a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northwestern Russia. The site is home to ancient rock carvings, or petroglyphs, that date back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Early humans created petroglyphs depicting various subjects, including hunting scenes, animals, and religious symbols. The petroglyphs are considered some of the most well-preserved examples of prehistoric rock art in the world and provide important insights into the early history and culture of the region.
Struve Geodetic Arc
The Struve Geodetic Arc is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans 10 countries, including Russia. Located in the northwestern part of the country, the arc is a chain of survey triangulations used in the 19th century to accurately measure the size and shape of the earth accurately. The arc stretches for 2,820 kilometers and includes 34 stations, each marked with a stone pillar. The site is considered a remarkable example of scientific and technological achievement and a testament to the collaborative efforts of scientists from multiple countries to advance our understanding of the earth.
White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal
The White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Vladimir Oblast region of Russia. The site includes eight medieval monuments that showcase the unique architectural style of ancient Russian cities. The monuments include the Assumption Cathedral, the Golden Gate in Vladimir, the Cathedral of the Nativity, and the Monastery of Saint Euthymius in Suzdal. The site is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of ancient Russia. It attracts thousands of visitors yearly to admire its white stone architecture, intricate frescoes, and other decorative details.
Central Sikhote-Alin
Central Sikhote-Alin is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Far East of Russia. It is a vast natural complex covering over 16,000 square kilometers and is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem. The site features a complex system of mountains, rivers, and forests that are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the endangered Siberian tiger. Central Sikhote-Alin also has geological and ecological features that make it an important site for scientific research. Visitors can explore the area through hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, while enjoying the stunning natural scenery and diverse wildlife.
Golden Mountains of Altai
The Golden Mountains of Altai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Russia, encompassing the Altai Mountains and the surrounding areas. This natural and cultural landscape is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem, including rare plant and animal species. The area also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 2,000 years. The Golden Mountains of Altai are known for their stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes and rivers. The area is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and skiing, as well as for cultural tourism, with many ancient ruins, temples, and other historical sites to explore.
Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Siberia, Russia. It is the deepest and oldest lake in the world, home to a unique and diverse ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth. The lake is over 25 million years old and contains over 20% of the world’s freshwater. Its clear waters and stunning natural beauty have made it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding area is also home to several indigenous communities who have lived on the shores of the lake for thousands of years, adding to the cultural and historical significance of this natural wonder.
Landscapes of Dauria
The Landscapes of Dauria UNESCO World Heritage site is located in southeastern Russia and northeastern Mongolia. The site is a vast steppe and forest landscape home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Siberian tiger, the Mongolian gazelle, and the red-crowned crane. The landscape also contains important cultural and historical sites, such as the remains of ancient cities, temples, and forts, which witness the long history of human habitation in the region. The Landscapes of Dauria is a unique and fascinating destination for travelers who want to experience Russia and Mongolia’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Lena Pillars Nature Park
Lena Pillars Nature Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Sakha Republic, Russia. It features towering limestone pillars that rise 100 meters above the Lena River, creating a stunning natural landscape. The pillars are believed to have been formed over 500 million years ago and are a unique example of the Earth’s geological history. The site is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Siberian musk deer and the osprey. Lena Pillars Nature Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural wonders and the geological history of our planet.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
The Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Russian Arctic, near the coast of Siberia. This nature reserve is a remote and pristine area that covers Wrangel Island and the surrounding waters. The reserve has many flora and fauna, including polar bears, walruses, and migratory birds. The island is also home to unique and endemic species, such as the Wrangel Island lemming and snow goose. The reserve is an essential area for scientific research and is one of the few remaining places on Earth that remains virtually untouched by human activity.
Putorana Plateau
The Putorana Plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Russia’s Krasnoyarsk Krai region. It is a massive, remote plateau that covers an area of over 250,000 hectares and is home to some of the world’s most pristine and untouched landscapes. The plateau is known for its stunning waterfalls, canyons, and other natural features created by ancient volcanic activity. It is also home to a unique and diverse range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard and Siberian musk deer. The Putorana Plateau is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers looking to experience the beauty and majesty of Russia’s wilderness.
Uvs Nuur Basin
The Uvs Nuur Basin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Tuva Republic and the Altai Republic of Russia. It is a unique and ecologically important area that spans the borders of Russia and Mongolia. The site features a diverse range of landscapes, including desert, steppe, and taiga, as well as a variety of plant and animal species that are rare or endangered. The basin is also home to several important cultural sites, including ancient petroglyphs, burial mounds, and other archaeological remains. The Uvs Nuur Basin is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, culture, and history.
Virgin Komi Forests
The Virgin Komi Forests is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Komi Republic of Russia. The site covers over 3.28 million hectares of pristine boreal forest and is the largest virgin forest in Europe. The forest is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Siberian tiger and the European lynx. The area also holds significant cultural and historical importance, as indigenous people have inhabited it for thousands of years. The Virgin Komi Forests is a unique and beautiful destination for nature lovers and those interested in learning about Russia’s rich history and culture.
Volcanoes of Kamchatka
The Volcanoes of Kamchatka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Kamchatka Peninsula in eastern Russia. The site features a stunning and unique landscape of active and dormant volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and geothermal features. The Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the most geologically active regions in the world, with more than 300 volcanoes, 29 of which are active. The site is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including brown bears, reindeer, and various bird species. The Volcanoes of Kamchatka is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone interested in geology and natural history.
Western Caucasus
The Western Caucasus is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Russia. It is a mountainous region stretching along the Black Sea coast and is home to one of Europe’s largest remaining areas of pristine mountain ecosystems. The region has unique geological formations, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural significance.
The Western Caucasus is home to several key protected areas, including the Caucasus Biosphere Reserve and the Sochi National Park, which provide habitat for rare and endangered species such as the Caucasian leopard and the brown bear. The region’s rich cultural heritage is also reflected in ancient dolmens, burial mounds, and other archaeological sites. The Western Caucasus is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, culture, and history.
Russia UNESCO tentative list
- Historical and Cultural Jeyrakh-Assa Reservation
- Centre historique d’Irkoutsk
- Rostov Kremlin
- Historic Center of the Yenisseisk
- Petroglyphs of Sikachi-Alyan
- The Commander Islands (Comandorsky State Nature Reserve)
- Magadansky State Nature Reserve
- Krasnoyarsk Stolby
- The Great Vasyugan Mire
- Ensemble of the Astrakhan Kremlin
- The Ilmensky mountains
- The archeological site of Tanais
- Bashkir Ural
- Testament of Kenozero Lake
- Virgin Komi Forests (re-nomination)
- Western Caucasus (re-nomination)
- Mamayev Kurgan Memorial Complex “To the Heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad”
- The Oglakhty Range
- Centre historique de la ville de Gorokhovets
- Treasures of the Pazyryk Culture
- Rock Painting of Shulgan-Tash Cave
- Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior with the Medieval Rampart City Wall of Pereslavl-Zalessky (1152-1157)
- Heritage of Chukotka Arctic Marine Hunters
- Vyatskoe village
- Divnogorye Historical and Cultural Complex
- Astronomical Observatories of Kazan Federal University
- National Park Kytalyk
- Valley of the Kings of Tuva
- Denisova Сave
- Bashkir Shikhans: Toratau, Yuraktau and Kushtau
- Historic Town Centre of Torzhok and Country Estate Properties Designed by Nikolay Lvov
- The Complex of the Voskresensky Copper Smeltery
Tours in Russia
Our choices of tours in Russia are divided into thematic features such as Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Lake Baikal Experience.