Chechnya's capital, Grozny, has surprised many by topping a recent "happiness index" for Russian cities. The poll's organizers have attributed Grozny's success in the survey to the fact that many of its denizens are hopeful about the direction their city is taking as it gradually emerges from decades of war and chaos.
Grozny: Russia's 'Happiest' City
3
The remains of the former presidential palace in Grozny after the first Chechen conflict in the 1990s.
4
The exterior of Grozny's Akhmad Kadyrov Mosque.
5
A view of central Grozny as it looks today.
8
A young man and woman dance outside a polling station in Grozny during Russia's presidential election in March 2012.