The Volga, being the longest river of Europe, has been an important merchandize waterway from ancient times. Its wide and woody coasts are full of landscapes, which imbody calm beauty of Russian nature. Gold-domed temples, laced chapels, bell towers and the Volga cities panorama fill them up. The Volga has been a source of inspiration for poets, artists, musicians and cineastes for many centuries, being one of the symbols of Russia.