Russia's President Vladimir Putin has backed the development of a major visitor destination incorporating nature, traditions, and cultural heritage from the country's differing regions.

Located in Domodedovo, the plans for Russia Museum and Park include miniature versions of Russia's most iconic buildings. The Russian Geographical Society will lead the project.

According to Putin, the new attraction will have an entertainment value but will also have the ability to educate and inform visitors about the ethnic and cultural diversity within Russia.

He said: "Many countries have already carried out such projects. They have not just entertainment value but also serve more serious purposes, educating and informing.

"It would be good to carry out this project now; all the more so, as Russia has many interesting and useful things to show our citizens and also our visitors from abroad."

Russia had previously planned to develop such an attraction during the 1930s, which was to be sited near Leningrad. However, the project was halted due to World War Two.

Click here for more information from the Russian President's office and click here for more information from the Russian Geographical Society.