Matthew Janney

‘Mother Volga’ has always been Russia’s lifeblood

The magnificent river has not only fed Russia’s population for centuries but has been crucial to its expansion, says Janet Hartley

‘Barge Haulers on the Volga’ by Ilya Repin (1870-73). Credit: Getty Images

Already a subscriber? Log in

This article is for subscribers only

Subscribe today to get 3 months' delivery of the magazine, as well as online and app access, for only £3.

There’s no commitment, you can cancel any time.

  • Weekly delivery of the magazine
  • Unlimited access to our website and app
  • Enjoy Spectator newsletters and podcasts
  • Explore our online archive, going back to 1828

Comments

A blooming good offer

Join the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting the next 3 months for £3.

Already a subscriber? Log in