Samara is a large, beautiful city at the meeting point of the Volga and Samara Rivers. It was founded in 1586, but was originally a pirate nest. In 1586, a fortress was constructed to protect the eastern boundary from nomads. Although Samara was once closed off to foreigners during the Soviet period because of its industrial importance, it now attracts foreigners for its beautiful, lengthy beach on the majestic Volga -- perfect for taking strolls past some of the most visited sights or for swimming in the hot summers.