Which river starts northwest of Moscow and eventually flows into the Caspian Sea?

The Volga River begins in central Russia, near the northwest of the Russian capital, Moscow. It is the longest river in Europe, flowing more than 3,500 km (2,194 mi) through southern Russia, before emptying into the Caspian Sea. In Russian folklore, it is often referred to as "Mother Volga."

The river is divided into three parts. The upper Volga, where the river begins, is more of a small stream, which begins to swell towards the middle Volga. The lower Volga passes through valleys and lowlands and reaches its widest at 65 km (40 mi).

The Volga is Russia's primary waterway. It has served as an important trade route between Scandinavia and Finno-Ugric areas, Slavic, Turkic and Germanic areas, and Asia. Farmers also use the Volga as a water source.

Despite pollution problems due to petrol and diesel water craft, the Volga provides habitats for numerous birds and animals. These include pelicans, flamingos and Caspian seals.