Murmansk

Located almost due north of Saint Petersburg, behind the Northern Polar circle Murmansk is the largest city within the Arctic Circle. The city is often called "the Arctic gates", as the city is the starting point of the Northern Sea way and the base of the icebreaking (including atomic) fleet. Murmansk was founded in 1916 with British assistance during the World War I. It is the largest seaport, which is free of ice throughout the years and the most important base of fishing industry in Russia. Shipbuilding and repairing of vessels is the main part of Murmansk industry. The city is an important scientific and cultural center of the region. Every year Murmansk is getting more and more popular as the center of the international tourism. Excursions to the giant ships, the Northern Lights in November and December, beautiful northern nature and exotic animals as well as cruises across the northern seas guarantee an unforgettable trip. 

Quick facts about Murmansk

	Area:		144,900 sq km (the territory of the Murmansk region)
	Location:		Located on the shore of the Kola Bay of the Barents Sea.
	Geographic coordinates:		68 59 N, 33 08 E
	Population:		approx 381,000 (2005 est.)
	Foundation:		1916
	Climate:		In winter the average temperature is -10 С and in summer about +15-25 C.
	UTC/GMT Offset:		UTC/GMT + 3 hours
	Area code:		8152
	Major attractions:		Gun Monument, St. Nicholas' Church.