The Buddhism appeared in Russia in 16-17th centuries with Mongolian nomads, but for a long time Buddhist temples existed nowhere but in remote parts of the country. It was in 1907 that the petition for datsan construction was submitted in Saint-Petersburg, the capital of the Russian Empire. The initiative was seized by the scientist, religious and public figure Agvan Dorzhiev, who was personally granted permission for construction by Nicholas II. Building started in 1909, and 4 years later the first divine service was carried out. Watch one of the greatest Buddhist centres in European part of Russia Datsan Gunzechoinei Buddhist Temple in Saint Petersburg in a new film by RTG TV.