Russia is an endlessly captivating country. Founded by a band of Vikings bound for the riches of the east, in time it was beaten and bargained into a mighty state, one shaped by a series of ambitious rulers. Throughout its history it has faced countless calamities, achieved remarkable feats in literature, music, technology and so much more and played a key role in world affairs. Yet so much of its fascinating past is a mystery to those who dwell outside of its borders.