The exposition "Geography Lessons" to open at the National Centre RUSSIA

The exposition project "Geography Lessons" will open at the National Centre RUSSIA on 3 April. For the first time, the large-scale exposition will bring together unique cartographic treasures from the collections of the Russian State Library, the Russian Geographical Society, the archives of the Ministry of Defence, as well as leading universities and research centres of the country. Registration to visit the exposition has opened on the website of the National Centre RUSSIA in the "Events" section.

"Geography Lessons" is a conversation about how knowledge of the geography of one’s own land strengthens society and makes it more united. Geography is returning to the list of key national priorities, and the exposition shows that behind the dry contours on maps lie stories of discoveries, expeditions, battles, scientific breakthroughs and human destinies.

The exposition is designed for visitors of all ages and will be especially engaging for schoolchildren and their parents. Eight thematic halls will form chapters of a large narrative about Russia. Each hall will present stories devoted to land, water and sky, as well as several short narratives in the form of animation or video generated using modern technologies — about great discoveries, the exploration of new territories, battles and scientific breakthroughs.

"Geography Lessons" is a project dedicated to the thousand-year history of the spatial development of the state, presented through the prism of cartographic art. Its aim is to popularise geographical knowledge, foster patriotism, strengthen national identity, and encourage interest in the multinational and cultural diversity of the country.

"The aim of the project is to demonstrate the country’s resources and the vast opportunities for its development. In the offices of the country’s leaders, a huge map always hung on an entire wall. In schools, almost everywhere, there was a globe on every desk. Maps showing the boundless land cut through by rivers, with seas and lakes, hills and plains, and red borders marking the vast territory were symbols of the greatness and power of the state. The memorable image of this enormous country captured on a map still amazes people today," said the curator of the exposition, Semyon Mikhaylovsky.

Project partners include the Russian Geographical Society, the Russian State Library, Lomonosov Moscow State University, the Moscow State University of Geodesy and Cartography, the Federal Archival Agency, the Central Naval Library, the State Historical Museum, and others. The technological partner is VK. The exposition can be visited free of charge with prior registration. Follow updates on the website of the National Centre RUSSIA in the "Events" section.