The National Centre RUSSIA to prepare an exposition for the Year of Geography

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Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed declaring 2027 the Year of Geography. During his address at the Congress of the Russian Geographical Society (RGS) on 23 October, the Head of State instructed the Government of Russia to consider this proposal.

"Given the contribution of our geographers of different eras to strengthening the state and the immense significance of geographical science, I am asking the Government to explore the possibility of declaring 2027 the Year of Geography. It is important for us politically as well. And the main event of that year could be not only the confirmation or creation of new maps of the Russian Federation, but, of course, the opening of the Museum of Geography, which will have great practical significance," said Vladimir Putin.

Ahead of the Year of Geography, in 2026, the National Centre RUSSIA will host an exposition titled "Geography Lessons". It will focus on the country’s cartographic legacy and its modern achievements in the field.

"Geography is not merely a science describing the Earth. It is knowledge about our Motherland, about the space where our people live, create, dream and move the country forward. We want to show that maps are not just lines and coordinates but a reflection of eras, personalities and discoveries. Ahead of the Year of Geography, the National Centre RUSSIA is preparing an exposition that will unite the legacy of great Russian cartographers with contemporary achievements. Here, the story of the country’s exploration will come to life — from the first maps to digital technologies that today open new horizons for Russia," said Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA Natalia Virtuozova.

The exposition will explore the geography of Russia — a vast country that covers one-eighth of the Earth’s land surface. Russia stretches across eleven time zones, connecting Europe and Asia. It is rich in natural resources, home to unique flora and fauna, and features diverse landscapes — from plains and forests to mountains, rivers and lakes. From west to east, its territory spans more than ten thousand kilometres. These immense expanses shape the character and worldview of the Russian people.