Ulyanovsk

Founded in 1642 as a fortified outpost of the Russian Empire, formerly Simbirsk (today Ulyanovsk) traded actively with Asia. Nowadays the town is mostly known for its connections with Vladimir Ulyanov, otherwise known to the world as Lenin. In 1970, the historic centre was transformed into a vast monument to his memory, since then the city was a Soviet shrine for almost 70 years. The main highlight of the city tour is the Lenin Memorial Complex which includes the house in which he was born.