Kaliningrad is a Russian city located on the Baltic Sea. It is the administrative center of Kaliningrad Oblast, a Russian exclave between Poland and Lithuania. The city has a population of approximately 480,000 people.
Kaliningrad was originally a German city known as Königsberg and was founded in the 13th century. It served as the capital of East Prussia and later became an important cultural and educational center. However, during World War II, the city suffered heavy damage and was ultimately annexed by the Soviet Union.
The city was later renamed Kaliningrad in 1946 in honor of the Soviet leader, Mikhail Kalinin. It became a major military and industrial center during the Soviet era. Today, Kaliningrad remains an important port city and is known for its amber production, shipbuilding, and fishing industries.
Kaliningrad is also a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as the Königsberg Cathedral, the Amber Museum, and the Kaliningrad Zoo. The city has a rich history and cultural heritage, with various architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Soviet-era buildings.
In recent years, Kaliningrad has gained attention as a host city for international sporting events, such as the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where it served as one of the tournament venues.