The first episode follows the Volga from its many sources to where it starts to be the dominant force in the European part of Russia. Although situated on the edge of densely populated Europe, this river realm offers vast regions of untamed nature. European bison, moose and wild boar live side by side with beavers, minks or otters. The still intact river habitats provide shelter for species that are virtually absent in Western Europe. The Russian Desman’s global distribution is restricted to the Volga basin. In slow-flowing side arms, these strange water moles hunt for insects and fish. The ALTAYFILM team captured the fascinating Volga in breathtaking pictures. From Impressive images, epic aerials and the hardly before documented behavior of rare animals - from the first minute, the empire of the Volga captivates its viewers.