(Reuters)

30 Crazy Things You Didn't Know About Russia -- Elena Holodny, Business Insider

Back in 1939, Winston Churchill famously remarked that Russia was "a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma."

For most people, his words ring true to this day.

Although Russia is the largest country in the world and has the eighth-largest GDP, little is widely known about the nation and its culture.

Because Russia has increasingly made international headlines, it's a good idea to know a few things about the country.

To help you out, we've compiled a list of some of the craziest facts about the Russian language, culture, politics, and statistics.

Read more ....

My Comment: This is scary .... not one of these facts is surprising to me. New Years Day in Red Square .... now that is a party .... correction .... a great party. I always pick mushrooms in fall .... and I know which ones are the poison ones. Sour cream on pancakes .... hmmm .... hmmmm .... with Canadian maple syrup it is divine. In regards to beer .... I will never forget a remark my father once made .... according to him beer is not alcohol, it is food.