August 30, 2022: the first direct train to Saint Petersburg left from Taganrog's main station today at 7:40 am. An official ceremony marking the event brought together general director of AO Federal Passenger Company Vladimir Pyastolov, Rostov Oblast Deputy Governor Alexander Skryabin, Taganrog City Manager Mikhail Solonitsin, Taganrog City Executive Inna Titarenko and other guests of honor. The first passengers were welcomed by a brass band and several art groups.

Official ceremony in front of Taganrog's main train station. Credit: Sergey Plishenko

The train consists of three cars with reserved seats and three sleeping berth car, including the one for physically challenged passengers. Every car is up-to-date; all of them are equipped with air conditioning systems and convenience outlets.

The launch of this service was dedicated to the 79th Taganrog Liberation Day and entire region from Nazi German occupation in 1943.

First passengers board the train to St. Petersburg. Credit: Sergey Plishenko

Starting September 1, the service will be available on a daily basis. The train makes stops in Rostov-on-Don, Voronezh, Lipetsk, Moscow, Tver.

Taganrog officials expect the train to bring more visitors and boost the city's economy at a vital time. As Taganrog City Manager Mikhail Solonitsin emphasized on that occasion, it was highly important to link Taganrog not only to Moscow, but also to Saint Petersburg, which has the nickname "Northern Capital of Russia".