Kaliningrad - the unique mixture of past and future

The most western city of Russia is the successor of the diverse and dramatic history which lasted eight centuries. Both the local authorities and the community are making efforts to preserve and reconstruct the existing Kaliningrad monuments of architecture, and history. The cathedral founded in 1333 looks nowadays as centuries ago. Activities aimed at preserving and proper using of the fortification architecture units situated in Kaliningrad are undertaken. The modern vision of Kaliningrad outlook comprises the project of possible reconstructions of the ancient King's Castle, as well as building up the brand of new modern multifunctional complexes. The project of the large-size music theatre construction is under preparation.

Tourism development of the tourism sphere is among the strategic priorities.The municipal and regional authorities contribute greatly to construction of new hotels, foundation of leisure and cultural centers. Developing the transport infrastructure of the city is of great importance. Considerable financial funds are allocated for preservation and renovation of Kaliningrad greenery. The program on revitalization of the city's lakes, rivers and brooks has been recently launched. The project "Marine Gates of Kaliningrad" is being currently elaborated. The project implies more active tourist use of banks of the Pregol River. The Kaliningrad region is deservedly called "the amber region" not only because of the world's largest amber minefield. Hundreds of Kaliningrad artists offer a diverse assortment of the amber handiwork. One of the largest museums in the region, situated in the ancient fortification, is devoted to the history of the amber craft. Another interesting place is the World Ocean Museum where apart from the artifacts a wide range of ships are exhibited. The municipal Museum "The Fridland gates" offers an interesting insight into the traditions and way of living of the East Prussian population. Kaliningrad is connected with the seashore by means of the throughway, which is constantly reconstructed.

The Kaliningrad's airport is predicted to become one of the largest international airports in the BSR in the nearest future. The projects of possible triple cooperation between Poland, Russia and Lithuania are being developed, including or- ganization of mini-cruises around the gulfs washed by the Kaliningrad peninsula, excursions around the Warmino - Mazursky system of channels, tourist visits to Gdańsk, Frombork, Kaliningrad and Klaipėda.