The Volga region, in western Russia, flows along Europe’s longest river with cities like Kazan and Samara as hubs, a breadbasket of Tatar culture and Soviet industry. Known for wheat, oil, and the Zhiguli car, its economy thrives on agriculture, energy, and shipping, framed by steppe and Orthodox domes. Its barges and kvas whisper history. The Volga’s steady heart beats wide.