Search by tag «Russian culture» 82 results
From Unicorns to Orange Trees: St. Petersburg's Most Unusual Local Flags
Strange shapes, mythical animals, Roman gods… we’ve already explored some of the most unusual flags found throughout Russia, but what about St. Petersburg in particular? In this installment, we’re going to zoom in on the flag collection of our beloved city.
14.01.2025
Must-Watch Russian Cartoons for Learners of Any Level
Watching animated movies isn’t solely a fun pastime. Packed full with simple-to-grasp themes, authentic vocabulary, and vibrant visuals, they are also a great way to learn a language and its culture. For an efficient-yet-enjoyable learning experience, here’s a list of Russian cartoons for anyone from beginners to more advanced speakers, lovingly hand-picked by Svetlana Dorofeeva, a lecturer at ITMO's Foreign Language Training Center.
06.01.2025
5 Historic Mansions Near St. Petersburg To Visit This Winter
Options for making the most of the winter holidays are unlimited: you can discover new architectural styles, learn about prominent Russian figures, or find peace reconnecting with nature. Actually, why choose? By visiting these historic mansions, you’ll kill three birds with one stone.
20.12.2024
Making Sense of Russian Street Names: St. Petersburg Edition
Have you ever walked down a street and wondered where its name comes from? In fact, many local toponyms are part of larger patterns influenced by history, geography, and the everyday lives of people. Read this article to uncover the stories and meanings behind some of the most popular ones.
09.12.2024
Beyond the Tricolor: Russia's Most Unusual Local Flags
While the Russian flag (aka the tricolor) is familiar to many, there’s a collection of other, lesser-known flags found in the country’s towns and cities, districts, and many other areas; some of which will strike you with not only with their beauty and creativity – but also, sometimes, oddity.
26.11.2024
Top Russian Cartoons Watched Worldwide
With these five contemporary Russian animated series, you'll not just have a blast – you'll also get in on plenty of cultural references, in-jokes, and even some philosophical conversations that are all so loved by the Russians and the world.
08.11.2024
Speak Like a Russian: Zoomer Lingo
In order to really feel like you’re a part of the conversation, just knowing the language isn’t always enough. If you’re learning Russian, one of the puzzling parts of talking to locals will be slang – such as the kind used by the youngest of your peers at university. Luckily, internet culture has made these terms more universal, and many may be intuitively understood by many English speakers; however, there are some notable – and often fascinating – differences.
28.10.2024
ITMO Student’s Adaptation Guide
For international students, exams and term papers aren’t the only cause of stress. Having to combine studies with finding your footing in an all-new environment can be tricky! The challenges are many, but none of them are impossible – or even difficult – as long as you’re prepared. From dealing with culture shock to learning the local customs and history, here are the things you should know as a new arrival to St. Petersburg. Trust us: you’ve got this.
08.10.2024
Weird (and Viral) Russian Foods You Should Try
Have you had milk soup? Ever wonder what meat jelly tastes like? And what’s milt? If you’re following any of your Russian friends on social media, you’ve surely seen the viral “icky food bingo.” While controversial treats like pineapple on pizza or blue cheese are hardly news to anyone, a few of the items may cause you to raise an eyebrow. Let’s find out what they are!
16.09.2024
This Week in St. Petersburg: September 5-11, 2024
With the dog days in full swing, it’s almost a crime to lock yourself in. Get outside, soak up some still-summery rays of sunshine, and have fun at the city’s gorgeous parks or on your next cultural outing. The choice is yours!
04.09.2024