Samara
City and Population
Samara is the capital of the Samara Region and is home to 1.13 million people. Samara is one of the most prominent Volga-region cities and it is famous as Russia's aerospace centre. During World War II, it became a "second capital" of Russia as all government departments and diplomatic corps were evacuated there from Moscow. Places of interest for visitors include the massive Stalin's bunker and the beautiful nature preserve, Zhigulevskie Hills, on the Volga River. In 2007 the cit hosted a European Union-Russia Summit. Samara is a major transport hub thanks to its international airport, major railway station and busy river port.
Sights
The Volga River, serving as the main commercial thoroughfare of Russia throughout several centuries, is an inherent part of the life of Samara and its citizens. The river embankment is unique and one of the favourite recreation places for locals and tourists alike.
Football
Samara is home to the Premier League Club FC Krylia Sovetov and has 14 stadiums with a capacity of at least 500 seats. Among the 10,000 people regularly playing football in the area, more than 2,000 children and youth players are registered in Samara's sports schools. There are various football tournaments organised in Samara, including a city children's football league with 34 teams and over 500 participants.
Stadium
The new FIFA World Cup™ Stadium Samara will be located on a 36.2 hectare precinct on Koroviy Island, situated in a prominent position at the confluence of the Volga and Samara Rivers. The outstanding riverfront location and the bold design concept of Samara Stadium will ensure its status as an iconic venue for the FIFA World Cup™.
FAN FEST
In Samara, the vast City Centre Square, the most frequented public square of Samara, will serve as the location for the Fan Fest. It offers a capacity of more than 36,000, including a grand stand for 3,700 facing the palace. Alternatively the Fan Fest can take place at an area overlooking the Volga River.
