Volgograd is a city located in the Volgograd Region, within the Volga Region of Russia. Situated on the western bank of the Volga River, it is one of the largest and most important cities in the country. Volgograd is known for its rich history, particularly for its role in World War II. The city was formerly known as Stalingrad and was the site of the infamous Battle of Stalingrad, one of the bloodiest battles in human history. Today, the city pays tribute to its wartime past with numerous monuments, museums, and memorials, including the iconic Mamayev Kurgan, a hilltop memorial complex dedicated to the fallen soldiers.