Sights of Russia. The most interesting sights of Russia What is the main attraction
Valley of Geysers in the Kronotsky Reserve Travelers who ask experienced tourists questions about what to visit in Russia that they will remember for their magical natural beauty receive the answer: “The Valley of Geysers located in Kamchatka”! This place is considered one of the. This volcanic canyon, which reaches a width of two kilometers and stretches for four kilometers, resembles a fantastic "city" of hundreds of geysers and hot springs. Hundreds of years ago there was a lake here, but under the influence of the continuous processes taking place in the volcano, it almost completely disappeared, and fountains of boiling water gushed in its place. The Valley of Geysers was discovered literally on the eve of the 1941 war. Here, near the Geysernaya River, the geyser Velikan is spouting like a fountain. Tourists who come to visit these sights of Russia can observe its work by climbing to a special observation deck on the right bank of the river. In a minute, the Giant throws up 30 tons of hot water, and the water column reaches the height of a nine-story building! Such a grandiose, truly fantastic spectacle is accompanied by a powerful roar. To the west of the Giant lies the Pearl Geyser, hidden at the bottom of the well and covered with geyserite, a bit reminiscent of natural pearls.
5. Hermitage (St. Petersburg)
Hermitage building The Winter Palace in St. Petersburg is a real treasure of the country and the northern capital. Its construction began under Peter the Great. This historical monument, looking into the waters of the Neva as if in a mirror, since the 1920s has become the most majestic and famous Russian museum - the Hermitage. Its unique collection owes its birth to the Empress Catherine II herself. The royal person placed her first acquired paintings in the Northern Pavilion in 1764. A random collection of paintings acquired by Catherine consisted of works by Jordaens, Hals and Rembrandt. With this purchase, Ekaterina began collecting paintings, which almost grew into a collecting mania. The rooms and galleries located in the Small Hermitage were filled with works of art literally exponentially. Soon there was simply no room left for paintings. Then the Great Hermitage was built. Soon the empress acquired the library of Denis Diderot, and Diderot himself, in gratitude, helped the empress buy paintings by the most famous masters of the brush. Today, the museum houses thousands of works by Poussin, Van Dyck, Rubens, Titian, Raphael and other geniuses who lived in Europe in different centuries. More than five million tourists visit the museum every year.
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6. Mamaev Kurgan (Volgograd)
Sculptures "Stand to the Death" and "Motherland" on Mamaev Kurgan Mamayev Kurgan - a hill rising near the Volga, has long been a memorable place, unfortunately associated with the tragic events of the Patriotic War of 1941-1945. This monument to the memory of the heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad was opened in Volgograd in 1967. The remains of the soldiers - the defenders of Stalingrad - are buried on the hill. Immediately installed a statue of the Motherland 86 meters high. It can be seen for several kilometers to every traveler arriving in Volgograd. The sword in the hand of the statue with a total weight of 14 tons reaches a height of 33 meters. The weight of the entire sculpture is close to 1,500 tons. They say that a large SUV can fit in the palm of the statue! Often, guests of the city, going to this sight of Russia, lay flowers at the foot of Mamaev Kurgan and the Eternal Flame, honoring the memory of the victims of fascism. Guests of the city who are thinking about what to see in Russia and in Volgograd itself, of course, should admire the majestic changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place on Mamaev Kurgan every hour, starting at 9 am and ending at 7 pm. In addition, travelers who book an excursion here will see weapons from the times of the Second World War - multi-ton tanks and cannons.
7. Kazan Kremlin (Kazan)
Cathedral Mosque Kul Sharif on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin The Kazan Kremlin is the main decoration of the capital of Tatarstan. Its Spasskaya Tower, built in 1562, is the most recognizable building of an ancient architectural structure. Its main “sign” is the watch, and they have their own history. The first clock of the Kazan Kremlin was not quite an ordinary mechanism that showed the time. Their dial constantly rotated, but the hand did not move! Modern clocks, according to which the whole of Tatarstan now checks the time, were installed only in 1963. Exhibitions, concerts and other entertainment events are constantly held on the territory of the Kremlin in Kazan. There are also cozy cafes with national Tatar cuisine. The most recognizable building in the Kremlin is the “falling” Soyumbike tower. Tourists looking for something to see in Russia and Kazan, related to the ancient history of the country, will definitely pay attention to the Mausoleum of Kazan Khans. From the observation deck of the Kremlin, a stunning majestic view of the modern part of the city opens up: the registry office, new houses, the Arena, the Palace of Farmers and the embankment. Tourists who want to take pictures in armor and shoot from a bow will be able to do this on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin. The main decoration of the historical site is the elegant blue and white Kul Sharif Mosque, which can accommodate more than 2,000 people.
8. State Tretyakov Gallery (Moscow)
Monument to Tretyakov P.M. in front of the Tretyakov Gallery The Moscow State Tretyakov Gallery, founded in 1856, is a historical treasure of Russia. The exposition of the gallery is located in several buildings. More than 1,500,000 people come here every year to get acquainted with the well-known monuments of Russian art. Currently, the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery covers a large historical period from representatives of ancient Russian painting of the 11th century to paintings by contemporaries. Every day the gallery is visited by students, elderly people, Muscovites and tourists who come to admire the sights of Russia. Here they admire the most famous works of art created by Ivanov, Shishkin, Vasnetsov, Surikov and other famous Russian artists. These paintings are the generally accepted standard of Russian art. Everyone will find the hall of Mikhail Vrubel here without mistake. Its subdued lighting and dark walls create an atmosphere that sets you up for a different perception of art. From all the works of a genius and a little strange in the manner of painting, the artist breathes mystery and fabulousness.
9. Krasnaya Polyana (Sochi)
Sunny day in Krasnaya Polyana Krasnaya Polyana is a ski resort near Sochi (Adler). There are trails for extreme sports, professionals, lovers of ski slopes and for beginners. Vacationers who want to take pictures of the nearby sights of Russia and Sochi can take a cable car up and take some rare shots. Of course, more tourists come to Krasnaya Polyana during the winter season, but even in summer, even those who decide to go here with kids will definitely find worthy entertainment here. The same cable car, which operates all year round, will appeal to both adults and their curious children, who have already managed to get tired of a beach holiday and frequent sea bathing. Having taken a lift ticket, you can climb to the highest point located in the mountains and relax in the Vysota bar, taking mulled wine for yourself, and natural juice for your child. There is also a mountain Olympic village built for the 2014 Olympics. Here you can stay in a hotel of any price category. In summer, the resort is a must to swim and sunbathe on the local beach, admiring the stunning views around the mountain.
10. Bolshoi Theater (Moscow)
The famous Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater The building of the Bolshoi Theater is easily recognizable by both avid theater-goers and people who are very far from everything related to art. It seems that the four horses, decorating the grandiose architectural structure, will now soar up. It is believed that the history of this Melpomene temple began in 1776, when Prince Urusov received permission from Empress Catherine II to open a public theater in Moscow. But the building that Urusov built burned down before the opening, and he decided to sell the enterprise to the Englishman Michael Maddox, a mathematician from Oxford, invited to Russia to teach the sciences of Tsarevich Pavel Romanov. And on December 30, 1780, the theater was solemnly opened. A 1000-seat hall, a spacious stage and a large orchestra pit were built in it. The first prima ballerina of the Bolshoi was the Frenchwoman Felicata Gullen-Sor. In 1918, Lenin demanded that the Bolshoi Theater be demolished immediately. He argued that opera is a bourgeois art that requires huge expenses and does not bring any benefit. Surprisingly, it was Stalin who changed Lenin's mind. In 1940, the Soviet government held a competition to give the theater a "Soviet working style". However, in 2011 the Bolshoi was restored, giving it its original historical appearance and improving acoustics.
Sights of Russia: what else to visit in Russia
13. Kizhi Architectural Ensemble (Petrozavodsk)
Kizhi - a monument of wooden architecture Any traveler who thinks about what to visit in Russia and Karelia chooses a trip to Kizhi. You can get from Petrozavodsk to the architectural ensemble of Kizhi in an hour and a half by boat. Now there is a museum of wooden architecture. However, it might not have existed if the Spaso-Kizhi churchyard had not arisen here in the 15th century. At that time, not a cemetery was called a churchyard, but a unit of territorial division. There were 130 villages in Kizhi at that time. First, the winter and summer churches were built, which later burned down in a fire. The architectural ensemble, familiar to many today, was built only in the 18th century. Construction began with the nine-domed Intercession Church. Its unique iconostasis has survived to this day. The most famous landmark of Russia in Kizhi is the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord. Its 22 domes are depicted on numerous Russian souvenirs, dishes, towels. They say that nails were not used in its construction, but this is not true. In total, the architectural ensemble consists of two churches and a large bell tower with 33 domes, symbolizing the number of years lived by the Savior.
14. Novgorod Kremlin ( Velikiy Novgorod)
Towers of the Novgorod Kremlin Novgorod is the oldest city in Russia, an ancient craft and trade center, a link that connects Rus' with Europe. The city still invites guests to look at its amazing sights. Among them is the Novgorod Kremlin or, as it was originally called, "detinets". This stone structure on the banks of the Volkhov was built by Prince Yaroslavl in the 11th century. For the first time, it was mentioned in the chronicles of 1044. But those original buildings have not been preserved. Later, the Kremlin was rebuilt and expanded several times. Today, the length of its walls is approaching one and a half kilometers. Now the Kremlin has 9 towers. The highest of them is Kokui. Behind the fortress walls there are various architectural monuments. St. Sophia Cathedral, near which all the townspeople used to gather at the Veche, the Faceted Chamber and the St. Sophia Belfry, which today attract curious tourists and people interested in the history of Russian architecture and the state as a whole. The territory of the Novgorod Kremlin is a favorite vacation spot for Novgorodians and guests of the ancient city. Here everything is adapted for recreation: cafes, playgrounds for children, carved benches. Thematic expositions dedicated to various events in Russian history are regularly arranged inside the Kremlin. From the observation deck you can take a panoramic shot of the city.
15. Kungur cave (Kungur, Perm region)
The ice kingdom of the Kungur cave Avid travelers looking for something to see the most unusual and even mystical in Russia should definitely go down to the Kungur cave. She is beautiful, and great, and truly magical. The first tourists, including kings, descended here in the 19th century. Today this place is the most famous Ural miracle. Up to 100,000 people visit it every year. In just a few hours, moving through the cave manholes, tourists see winter, autumn, and spring. But summer never happens in a cave. The temperature here does not rise above +5⁰ + 8⁰ C, so even the Urals themselves, who decide to admire stalactites, stalagmites and underground lakes at their leisure, often shiver here from the cold, forgetting to put on a warm jacket and hat before descending. The most beautiful hall of the cave, mesmerizing with its snow-white brilliance, is the Diamond Grotto, so named because of its many years of icing. Even if the temperature outside is +30⁰ C, snow flowers bloom on the walls of the grotto. Groups of tourists are not allowed to stay here for more than five minutes. The caretakers of the cave protect its microclimate and protect it from melting ice. The length of all the passages of the cave reaches six kilometers, along with fifty loopholes and grottoes, each of which has its own name and an amazing history. Many halls are illuminated with multi-colored lights and look like unreal, fantastic halls.
16. St. Basil's Cathedral (Moscow)
The status of the most recognizable landmark of Moscow, in addition to the well-known Kremlin, should be assigned to St. Basil's Cathedral - even at a fleeting glance, its colorful domes evoke associations with the Russian capital. The origins of the cathedral date back to the 16th century, when, by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible, a religious building grew on the site of the ancient temple of the Life-Giving Trinity. The basis for the creation of the cathedral was the idea of Heavenly Jerusalem - a hipped bell tower, around which eight domes are located, from above it resembles an eight-pointed star, similar to that of Bethlehem. And if the facade of the cathedral impresses with splendor and abundance of flowers, then the interior of the inner hall surprises with the simplicity of decoration. Here, in the twilight, a completely different spirit reigns - the spirit of commemorations and meek prayers. While the main church hall occupies the first floor, an ensemble of 9 churches united by galleries is located on the second tier.
17. Tsarskoye Selo Museum-Reserve (Pushkin, St. Petersburg)
The great heritage of the city of Pushkin is a museum — the Tsarskoye Selo reserve with its Catherine Palace, which is a fine example of Russian architecture. The whole complex is the most important monument of gardening art of the 18th-20th centuries, which was badly damaged as a result of the events of the Great Patriotic War, but was later completely restored. The museum complex consists of gardens, parks, small thematic museums and the central object - the Catherine Palace, a magnificent baroque building in beautiful azure and white tones with an abundance of gilding elements. The splendor of the palace interior is especially evident in its Throne Room, sparkling with gilded decor and impressive artistically painted ceilings. The richness and cozy color of the Amber Room, the combination of snow-white walls and gold of the Front Enfilade, the grandeur and spaciousness of the Hermitage pavilion are impressive.
18. Golden Ring of Russia (cities of North-Eastern Rus')
The famous tourist route, which turned 50 in 2017, has already become a classic of tourism in Russia. It leads through the oldest Russian cities, where every historical place, every museum and cathedral keeps its centuries-old history. All the moments of the formation of ancient Russian architecture are revealed in the process of traveling through eight old Russian cities located on the map so that if you connect them with a single line, it looks like a closed ring - hence the name of the route. Majestic white-stone churches of the 12th-13th centuries, medieval tented buildings, creations of famous architectural schools, interesting exhibits of ancient museums, where woodcarving, products of talented jewelers and lacemakers, enamel painting, lacquer miniatures and much, much more will allow you to see with your own eyes a rich tour "Golden Ring of Russia".
19. Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin (Nizhny Novgorod)
On the territory of the confluence of the great Russian rivers, the Volga and the Oka, majestically rises a brick fortress - a fortification of the 16th century. The origins of the appearance of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin arose back in the distant 13th century, when the Russian prince founded the city here and surrounded it with fortifications. And only after 3 centuries an important fortification post of red brick and white limestone was erected. The total length of the Kremlin walls is about 2 km, these walls have 13 combat towers, and the main gate is the Dmitrievskaya Tower, which has become one of the symbols of Nizhny Novgorod. The second important tower is located in the south-eastern tip - this is the Georgievskaya Tower, next to which is Minin and Pozharsky Square with a monument to Chkalov, as well as an observation deck from which a huge 560-step Chkalov staircase leads down.
20. Church of the Intercession on the Nerl (1.5 km from Bogolyubov)
Another of the monuments of ancient Russian architecture is located in the Russian outback, one and a half kilometers from the village of Bogolyubovo. On a clear day, against the background of the blue sky, the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is especially beautiful - the meek beauty of its facade, the combination of the piercing blue of the domes with its snow-white walls, is impressive. The church, which has become one of the symbols of Russia, was built in the 12th century in just one summer, not far from the residence of Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky. It was consecrated in memory of the events that took place in Constantinople in the 10th century during the siege of the city by the Saracens. There is a belief that the inhabitants of the city gathered in those difficult times in temples and prayed for the salvation of the city, and holy fool Andrew noticed how in the crowd of worshipers, on bended knee, the Mother of God herself offered up her prayers, after which she approached the throne, removed the cover from her head stretched it out over all people and bestowed salvation.
21. Cruiser Aurora (St. Petersburg)
Mentioning the sights of St. Petersburg , It is impossible not to mention one of the most symbolic monuments of the northern capital - the cruiser Aurora. The armored cruiser, created to strengthen the navy in the process of geopolitical rivalry with England, was named after the ancient Roman goddess of the dawn. It was built at the very end of the 19th century and survived a number of significant events of the 20th century: it participated in the battles of the Japanese, World War I, was involved in the storming of the Winter Palace and in the defense of Kronstadt. The ship was regularly bombarded by enemy artillery, but still survived to this day. Today, there is a museum on board the cruiser dedicated to the participation of the ship in significant historical events, as well as a ship temple, restored in the post-Soviet era.
22. Manpupuner (Komi Republic)
Amazing natural formations in the form of weathered pillars can be seen in the Troitsko-Pechora region of Komi. The unusual name of these creations - Manpupuner - translated from the Mansi language means "Small mountain of idols". Once upon a time, millions of years ago, the Ural Mountains towered in this place, but over time, wind and water destroyed the rock. In some places, the stones turned out to be so strong that erosion could not cope with them - this is how a plateau was formed with bizarre rocky pillars, which are also called remnants. In total, there are seven such statues on the plateau, they rise in the middle of the plain, have a height of 30 to 42 meters and an unusual shape, at different angles resembling either the figure of a giant, or the head of a horse - in a word, there is room for imagination to roam.
23. Volcanoes of Kamchatka (Kamchatka)
Russia is great and immense, and if the sights of central Russia are concentrated in cities adjacent to the capital, and getting to know them will not take much time, then to visit others you will have to get to the opposite end of the mainland. So, to study the beautiful natural creations of the Kamchatka Peninsula, it is worth highlighting a separate trip - this region is so rich. It abounds with waterfalls, hot springs, beaches and coves, and, of course, the true symbol of Kamchatka is its many volcanoes. Few places on earth can meet such a number of volcanoes in such a small area, and with them unique landscapes, so excursions to Kamchatka are primarily rafting on mountain rivers, climbing dormant volcanoes, skiing from snow-covered slopes, therapeutic bathing in thermal springs , acquaintance with the ancient culture of the indigenous northern peoples and much, much more.
24. Lena Pillars (Yakutia)
In the Republic of Yakutia, on the banks of the large Siberian river Lena, there is an amazing stone ridge with a length of about 80 kilometers. The rocks, in some places reaching a height of 200 meters, were formed from ancient limestones, and their formation began about 500 million years ago. These formations have a bizarre striped “color” and an unusual elongated shape, and today a national park has been created on their territory. Since ancient times, this place was considered sacred - only shamans and elders were allowed to the rocks to talk with the spirits. From a scientific point of view, the pillars are an example of ancient formations of sedimentary rocks - once there was a sea in their place, and the bone remains of marine life served as the material for the formation of future rocks. Over time, the sea dried up, and weathering processes led to the formation of unusual natural creations.
25. Kul Sharif Mosque (Kazan)
The main mosque of Tatarstan and the symbol of the entire Tatar people is the Kul Sharif mosque in Kazan - a place of Muslim worship, weddings, photo shoots for tourists, and just a corner of authentic beauty and peace. It is worth noting that the modern building is not a historical building, it was erected quite recently on the site of the original Kul Sharif mosque that once existed here. The original building was destroyed back in the 16th century by the troops of the Russian Tsar Grozny, and only from 1996 to 2005, active restoration of the mosque started on this site, and the opening itself was timed to coincide with the millennium of the Tatar capital. The modern building is built of white marble and has eight high towers - minarets. Inside, you can visit the prayer halls, the Islamic Museum, and especially for foreign visitors, there are even special balconies from where you can watch the service.
26. Swallow's Nest (Crimea)
Any quiz on the sights of Crimea is not complete without mentioning perhaps the most famous monument of the peninsula - a magnificent castle, literally hovering on the edge of a cliff above the sea. Of course, this is the well-known "Swallow's Nest" - the smallest castle in the world, located at the tip of the southern cape Ai-Todor, at an altitude of 40 meters above sea level. The castle itself was built back in 1912 by order of a German baron, who wanted to see a castle in this beautiful place, reminding him of the architectural masterpieces of his distant homeland. In the Soviet years, more than one film was filmed in the vicinity of the castle, starting from the 70s until 2011, a restaurant operated within its walls, and today you can visit the museum here, see the interior and exterior of the building, admire the view from a sheer cliff.
27. Sayano-Shushenskaya HPP (Yenisei River)
In addition to the classic sights, there are other interesting places in Russia that clearly demonstrate the colossal nature of human labor and the genius of engineering. These include the dam of the Sayano-Shushenskaya hydroelectric power station - an impressive hydraulic structure in terms of scale and complexity. In terms of generated power, this hydroelectric power station ranks first among similar structures in Russia and seventh in the world. The dam has a huge height - 245 meters, and blocks the waters of one of the greatest rivers in the country - the Yenisei. Not only the size of the HPP is impressive - perhaps the most striking sight is the incredible spillway, because in just one second more than 13 thousand cubic meters of water can be discharged through special compartments.
28. Shikhans in Bashkiria (Bashkir Cis-Urals)
Few people know that in Bashkiria you can find ancient coral reefs that lay at the bottom of the Ural Sea millions of years ago. Shikhany - mountains that have witnessed natural processes occurring in those ancient times. These unique geological formations were essentially huge coral reefs, which, after the drying up of the ancient sea, became home to many terrestrial plants and animals. In modern times, Shihans are of some benefit to industry - a number of building materials are produced from multi-ton limestone deposits. Therefore, at the moment, out of four shikhans, in fact, only three remain - the fourth, alas, almost all went for processing by the Bashkir industrial enterprise.
29. Elbrus (Caucasus)
The highest peak in Russia is 5,642 meters and belongs to the Caucasus Mountains system. This is Mount Elbrus at the junction of two republics - Karachay-Cherkess and Kabardino-Balkaria. The characteristic double-headed shape of Elbrus made the mountain a unique recognizable symbol of the North Caucasus. Today, it fascinates and attracts the attention of both climbers seeking to conquer high peaks and travelers who come to the foot to feel all the greatness and power of the stone giant. An interesting fact is that these two peaks are of volcanic origin - they were formed on a volcanic basis and, in fact, are two independent volcanoes. According to existing data, the last eruption here occurred about 2 thousand years ago. The highest is the western peak, the eastern one is 21 meters lower, and the saddle separates the two peaks, the height of which is about 300 meters lower than the mountain peaks.
30. Plesetsk Cosmodrome (Mirny)
Studying the sights of the world, it is worth paying attention to some objects of world importance in Russia - such is the Plesetsk cosmodrome, which played a crucial role in the development of astronautics. For example, until 2018, it ranked first in the world in terms of the number of space launches and launched vehicles. The cosmodrome is located in the Plesetsk district of the Arkhangelsk region and occupies a huge area - more than 1700 square meters. kilometers. Independent visits are prohibited, and excursion entry to the territory of the cosmodrome is carried out through a checkpoint, where strict control is carried out, due to the secrecy of the objects located here. On the territory you can visit the Historical and Memorial Museum, which is especially interesting for its realistic dioramas demonstrating the launch of rockets.
31. Trans-Siberian Railway
The Great Siberian Way, today called the Trans-Siberian Railway, surpasses all railway lines in the world in its scale. The length of the highway is almost 10 thousand kilometers, it passes through 21 constituent entities of the Russian Federation, and its main task is to connect the European region of the country, its main (Moscow) and northern capital (St. Petersburg) with the most important Far Eastern and East Siberian cities of Russia. The construction of the great Trans-Siberian Railway started back in 1891, after the emperor issued a decree on laying the Great Siberian Route, and lasted almost a quarter of a century. The starting point of the construction was a place near Vladivostok - Kuperovskaya Pad, it was here that Tsarevich Nikolai, in the future Tsar Nicholas II, personally drove the first wheelbarrow of earth to the future roadbed.
32. Golden Mountains of Altai (Siberia)
While the most popular historical sights are concentrated in the European part of Russia, its Asian part is a land of magnificent, pristine nature, wild expanses with a contrasting climate and sometimes very diverse nature. For example, Central Asia and Siberia are separated by a picturesque natural complex - the golden mountains of Altai, recognized as a world heritage site. Gorny Altai is a real treasury of natural resources: on an area of 1.64 million hectares there is the Altai Biosphere Reserve, the Katunsky Nature Reserve, the natural parks Belukha and the Ukok Quiet Zone. There are few places in the world with such contrasting landscapes - all the natural Central Asian zones converged in this region: steppes, deserts, forest-steppes, mountain taiga, mixed forests, alpine and subalpine meadows. The pearl of Altai is the deep-water Lake Teletskoye, called the younger brother of Baikal.
33. Khan's Palace (Bakhchisarai)
Mentioning the sights of the Crimean peninsula, one cannot fail to mention the luxurious monument of the Crimean Tatar architecture - the Khan's Palace in Bakhchisarai. In ancient sources, the palace is mentioned as a khan's residence, the construction of which was completed by 1551. The main task of the craftsmen who worked on the construction of the palace was to embody the Muslim idea of an earthly paradise in the construction, and as a result of their work, not just a palace, but a miniature city grew up, which became the center of the cultural, spiritual and political life of the Crimean Tatar state. In the 20th century, a national museum was opened within the walls of the palace, and starting from 1979, as a result of laborious restoration, the palace acquired the role of a monument of Crimean architecture. The palace territory is still rich in greenery, fountains, all buildings have an authentic facade with characteristic ornate murals.
34. Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas (Kronstadt)
At the very beginning of the 20th century, by decree of Tsar Nicholas II, the largest naval cathedral of the times of the Russian Empire, Nikolsky, was erected in the fortress city of Kronstadt. Today, this beautiful neo-Byzantine monumental building is the main naval temple of the Russian Federation and functions as a branch of the Central Naval Museum. Inside, the temple has a rich decoration with a mass of painted ornaments, an abundance of gilding, where much attention is paid to the maritime theme, because the cathedral was originally conceived as a monument to the dead sailors. In the hall of the temple you can see black memorial plaques made of marble, in the altar - the same white ones: the names of naval officers who died in battle are listed on black, and the names of clergymen who died at sea are listed on white. In the square of the cathedral there is an old garden, in which 32 oak trees were planted by the Russian tsar and his entourage.
35. Narzan Gallery (Kislovodsk)
If we mention the natural attractions of Russia, the presentation will not do without such riches that are not only pleasing to the eye, but also have a beneficial effect on human health. A very successful synthesis of useful natural gifts and skilful architectural craftsmanship is the Narzan Gallery, located in the very heart of Kislovodsk. Here, at the beginning of the 18th century, a narzan spring was discovered, the healing properties of its waters were discovered rather quickly, and a well was equipped a century later. In the same years, treatment with Narzan waters also spread. So, on the site of the spring, by order of Prince Vorontsov, in 1858, a beautiful Gothic structure made of yellow stone grew up, intended for the rest of holidaymakers who used life-giving water. The luxurious and spacious gallery has retained its original appearance to this day, having undergone only minor changes in the interiors.
37 chose
At the end of March, the multimedia project "Russia 10" was launched. The country chooses its main symbols - the brightest and most significant monuments of culture and architecture, as well as natural attractions. As a result of the voting, which will last six months, should get the top ten main symbols of Russia.
This competition, it seems to me, should raise interest in the history and culture of our country, help to learn about the sights in the regions, about the unique natural landscapes of our vast Motherland. The project can spur tourists, and not only foreign ones, but also ourselves, to travel more and explore not only well-known sights, but also the outback.
So, I offer you the option of the Top 10 main attractions of Russia.
No. 1. Novgorod Kremlin
The Novgorod Kremlin is the oldest surviving Kremlin in Russia. The first mentions date back to the middle of the 19th century. However, the uniqueness of the ensemble, in my opinion, is not even in its age or architectural features, but in the fact that it is a spiritual center in which Russian statehood was born, where the Novgorod veche met, which became a unique experience of ancient democracy. This is the first fortification built under Ivan the Third, who united the Russian lands under the rule of Moscow. The Moscow Kremlin was built only a year later.
No. 2. Petrodvorets
Petrodvorets is located 30 km from St. Petersburg and is one of the most famous palace and park ensembles in our country and, perhaps, the whole world.
I would call it the main decoration of the "pearl necklace" of the city on the Neva, as the suburbs of St. Petersburg are called.
The history of Petrodvorets is inextricably linked with the name of Peter the Great, who ordered in the mid-20s of the 18th century to create a country residence that would not be inferior to the residence of the French kings - Versailles. Peter himself took an active part in the design and construction of this complex.
The unique, in my opinion, difference between Petrodvorets and other palace and park ensembles are dozens of fountains of various appearance and design, which are part of the stunning beauty of the complex.
No. 3. St. Basil's Cathedral
Basil's Cathedral is considered one of the brightest and most famous monuments of ancient Russian architecture. This is the main temple of Red Square and all of Moscow. It was built in the middle of the 16th century by decree of Ivan the Terrible in honor of the capture of the Kazan and Astrakhan khanates. Later, the holy fool Basil the Blessed was buried in one of the temple's limits, which is why the cathedral got its name. For us Russians, he is a symbol of national history and national character.
No. 4. Mamaev kurgan
Mamayev Kurgan is rightfully considered the main height of Russia, the monument erected on it is a unique composition dedicated to the heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad. It captures the great epic of the courage and heroism of the defenders of Stalingrad. Mamaev Kurgan got its name during the time of the Tatar-Mongol invasion, when the outpost of Khan Mamai was located on its top.
No. 5. Cathedral of Christ the Savior
Cathedral of Christ the Savior - Cathedral of the Russian Orthodox Church in Moscow. The existing building, which was erected in 1994-1997, is a reconstruction of the temple of the same name, created in the 19th century. The cathedral was erected in memory of the Napoleonic invasion. The names of officers of the Russian army who fell in the war of 1812 were carved on its walls. The temple was built according to the design of the architect Konstantin Ton, and its construction lasted 44 years.
No. 6. Solovetsky archipelago
The uniqueness of the Solovetsky archipelago, in my opinion, lies in the fact that thousands of years of Russian history have merged here in an amazing way. These are the sites of ancient people, and monastic shrines, and the memory of the Soviet past, combined with a stunning natural landscape.
In 1992, the historical and cultural ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands was included in the World Heritage List.
No. 7. Kizhi
Kizhi is a state historical, architectural and ethnographic museum-reserve located in Karelia. The name of the museum comes from the island of Kizhi in Lake Onega, 68 km from Petrozavodsk. This is one of the largest open-air museums in Russia, a historical, cultural and natural complex, which is an object of the cultural heritage of our country.
No. 8. Smolensk fortress wall
The Smolensk fortress wall is a defensive structure erected in 1595-1602, during the reign of Tsars Fyodor Ioannovich and Boris Godunov. It is also called the Smolensk Kremlin, the length of the walls of which is 6.5 km. I am amazed that even the currently preserved part of the wall (about half of the fortification built at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries) demonstrates the grandeur and historical significance of the structure designed by the architect Fyodor Savelyevich Kon.
No. 9. Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is located almost in the center of Eurasia, in the Baikal mountain region, which is surrounded on all sides by high ridges. It stretches for 636 kilometers in length and about 80 kilometers in width. 336 rivers and streams flow into Baikal, half of the volume of water entering the lake comes from the Selenga. The only river that flows out of Baikal is the Angara. The surface area of the lake is 31470 square kilometers, the maximum depth reaches
1637 m. Baikal is the deepest lake in the world, which has 30 islands, the largest of them is Olkhon Island.
No. 10. Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka
The word "geyser" means spouting. In Kamchatka, this amazing natural phenomenon was discovered in 1941 by T.I. Ustinova. The most active section is located in the lower reaches of the Geysernaya River and stretches 3.5 km upstream. The uniqueness of the Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka is that all known geysers, constantly active and pulsating boiling springs, steam jets are concentrated here. There are about forty of them in total. The largest of them "Giant" is located on the left bank of the Geysernaya River.
So, I brought to your attention a variant of the Top 10 new symbols of Russia. And what symbols of Russia would you suggest?
Natalie Stewart , specially for Etoya.ru
Photo: solovki.orthonord.ru, turinfo.ru, gid-spb.ru, spp.lfond.ru, novgorod.ru, vip-volga.narod.ru, liveangarsk.ru, hramy.ru, svali.ru, cultcalend. en
Traveling around Moscow is best to start from Red Square and the Kremlin. The main and most famous square of the capital is located near the walls of the ancient Kremlin, it is also the main landmark of Moscow.
Here are located Lobnoye Mesto, a monument to citizen Minin and Prince Pozharsky, the famous Lenin Mausoleum - one of the most famous sights of Moscow. In essence, the Kremlin is a city and an ancient fortress on the banks of the Moskva River, the former residence of Moscow princes and tsars.
On the territory of the Kremlin there are beautiful cathedrals - Assumption, Annunciation and Arkhangelsk, as well as a number of churches - ancient architectural sights of the capital. The legendary Tsar Cannon and the huge Tsar Bell are also located within the walls of the Kremlin. Near the ancient Kremlin walls are the Alexander Garden and Manezhnaya Square, the Eternal Flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
While in Moscow, you should definitely visit the Arbat. This is one of the oldest streets in the city and one of the main sights of Moscow. It is always interesting to walk along the pedestrian zone of the Old Arbat, get acquainted with the monuments of architecture and the history of the street. A lot is always sold on Stary Arbat. Another of the most interesting sights of Moscow is the revived Cathedral of Christ the Savior. This grand building, built in the Russian-Byzantine style, is distinguished by the luxury of both external and internal decoration.
Walking around Moscow, it is worth visiting the Sparrow Hills of Moscow State University and the observation deck, from which viewers can enjoy a bewitching view of Moscow - all tourists are taken to this landmark of the capital. Patriarch's Ponds - always attract numerous admirers of Mikhail Bulgakov's work and the novel The Master and Margarita. This is a quiet green place in the city center with beautiful ponds where swans live. However, this landmark of Moscow, thanks to Bulgakov, began to have a mystical connotation.
There are more than sixty different museums in Moscow and many galleries and exhibitions, many of which are included in the list of must-see Moscow attractions. Among them, of course, it is worth noting the Tretyakov Gallery, founded by a famous Russian philanthropist. Of the cultural attractions of Moscow, it is also worth noting the Manege exhibition hall, the Central House of Artists, the Historical Museum on Red Square, the Zoological Museum, the Botanical and Zoological Gardens. Moscow also has many private art galleries specializing in contemporary art.
Russia is an incredible country. This is not even a country, but a whole world in which there is everything - from masterpieces of architecture and a huge number of museums, to a wide variety of natural attractions - mountain lakes, geysers, glaciers and much more. It is incomprehensible to the mind how all this survived throughout the history of the world's largest country, rich in wars and uprisings.
Russians are rather strange people - they are proud of their history, but at the same time they can write a three-letter word on a monument. They are delighted with the nature of their homeland, but they are too lazy to clean up empty bottles after a picnic. Nevertheless, this is a great people with a difficult fate and attitude to life, which no philosophical concept can explain.
Foreigners go to Russia to check whether Dostoevsky, Tolstoy and Pushkin wrote the truth about it, and to see with their own eyes attractions this unique country. Here is a brief tour of the main ones.
1. Trans-Siberian Railway
Part of the world's longest railway, the historic section of the Trans-Siberian Railway stretches from Miass (a city in the Urals) to Vladivostok along the border with China and North Korea. It was it that Tsar Alexander III began to build in 1891, and his son Nicholas II completed what he started. 1916 The length of the oldest part of the Trans-Siberian Railway is more than 7000 km, and the total length of the railway line connecting Moscow with Vladivostok is 9288 km.
Most travelers use the train for an overnight stay, there are first, second and third class beds, the most expensive compartments have separate showers and toilets.
2. Elbrus
Mount Elbrus with a height of 5642 meters belongs to the Caucasus Range, located in southern Russia. Elbrus is included in the Seven Peaks - the highest mountains located on different continents of the planet. This is the highest mountain in Russia, and thousands of beginners and experienced climbers come here every year.
Previously, Elbrus was a volcano, but not a single eruption was recorded, so it is believed that it has died out forever. You can get to the mark of 3800 meters by cable car, which is very convenient. At an altitude of 4130 meters, the Shelter of the Eleven hotel used to be located, which burned down in 1998, and a new building is currently under construction.
3. Valley of Geysers
The Russian Far East is an amazingly beautiful and unusual place. There are a lot of unique natural attractions here, one of which is the Valley of Geysers on the Kamchatka Peninsula - the second largest geyser field in the world.
The valley was discovered in 1941 by Russian scientist Tatyana Ustinova, and since then many tourists and explorers have come here. The valley is included in the reserve, so there are certain rules for organizing excursions. The most convenient way to get to the Valley is by helicopter, but it is very expensive, so it is better to rent a helicopter with a company.
In 2007, a landslide descended into the Valley, after which it was flooded, but in 2013 a new landslide destroyed the natural dam, and the geysers began to clog again, there were even more of them.
4. Kizhi Island
This is one of the main attractions of the Republic of Karelia, located in the North-Western region of Russia, bordering Finland and washed by the waters of the White Sea. Since the 13th century, Karelians have been living here - the Finno-Ugric people, who found themselves at the junction of the cultures of the West and the East.
Kizhi Island is a real open-air museum, you will not find anything like local wooden churches anywhere else in the world. Especially beautiful is the 37-meter Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior with its 22 domes. The church was founded at the beginning of the 18th century and is entirely built of wood. In addition to it, there are wooden peasant houses, windmills, bell towers and barns. There are very few indigenous local residents, but they carefully preserve their traditions - weave various crafts from birch bark, do embroidery, sew national clothes, knit lace and sing folk songs.
5. Hagia Sophia in Novgorod
The church of incredible beauty is the main temple of Novgorod, a very ancient Russian settlement. The cathedral, in turn, is the oldest surviving church built by the Slavs, the construction of which was completed in 1050. Hagia Sophia is located on the territory of the Novgorod Kremlin, the height of the church is almost 40 meters.
The temple is crowned with five domes; several ancient Orthodox shrines are kept here, for example, the Icon of the Mother of God “The Sign”, which, according to legend, saved Novgorod from the attack of one of the princes in 1170. His army besieged the city, and when the inhabitants realized that they could not fight back, they began to offer prayers to the Lord. On the third night of the siege, Archbishop John heard a voice commanding him to take this icon out of the cathedral, and he followed the will of God. When one of the arrows of the besiegers hit the icon, tears flowed from the eyes of the Most Holy Theotokos, after which the besieging army threw down their weapons and ran away.
6. Lake Baikal
Traveling along the Trans-Siberian Railway and not enjoying the views of Lake Baikal is simply stupid. This ancient lake is the cleanest and deepest fresh water body of the planet. It contains 20% of the world's fresh water reserves, and the depth of the lake reaches 1642 meters.
Baikal was formed about 25 million years ago, and at present it is one of the most famous and beautiful reservoirs in the world. The lake is very large, so many locals call it the sea, and another common nickname is the Pearl of Siberia. If you decide to spend a few days here, you can stay in one of the tourist bases or rent a house, and for a very reasonable fee, and lovers of exotic holidays can put up a tent in some picturesque place on the coast.
Please note that the impressions of Lake Baikal will not be complete if you do not try smoked Baikal omul - this is the most delicious fish in the world.
7. Suzdal
The city of Suzdal used to be the capital of one of the principalities of Ancient Rus', and now it is part of the so-called Golden Ring of Russia - ancient cities that have preserved beautiful examples of medieval Russian architecture.
Each city of the Ring is unique in its own way, but Suzdal is just one big architectural masterpiece. There are many beautiful, surprisingly well-preserved cathedrals, churches and entire monasteries, and the famous Suzdal Kremlin is located in the very heart of Suzdal. Unfortunately, its wooden towers were destroyed by fire in the 18th century, but the earthen fortifications and several buildings still exist, so there is something to see.
Suzdal is like a huge open-air museum: walking along the streets, it is easy to imagine that you are in the distant past.
8. Moscow Kremlin
To describe the beauty of the unique buildings and relics of the Moscow Kremlin, there are not enough words even in the great and mighty Russian language. Located in the historical center of the capital of Russia, this architectural ensemble has long become the hallmark of the country.
The first wooden fortifications appeared here in the 12th century, and under the Grand Duke Dmitry Donskoy, the Kremlin became white stone - in the most important towers and fortifications, wood was replaced with white stone. By the way, the memory of this was preserved in the speech of the Russian people - Moscow is still sometimes called "white stone", although the Kremlin has long been "repainted" in red: Ivan III the Great (by the way, the grandfather of the first Russian Tsar Ivan IV the Terrible) ordered the best Italian architects, and they rebuilt the residence of the prince, using burnt bricks.
On the territory of 27.5 hectares there are the Palace of Facets (formerly it was the main front hall of the Kremlin), three cathedrals - the Assumption, Arkhangelsk and Annunciation, the Armory, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and many other architectural masterpieces.
The Kremlin museums allow you to plunge headlong into the richest Russian history - it will take a lot of time to go around all the expositions and examine all the exhibits.
The Moscow Kremlin still serves as the residence of the rulers of Russia: reception halls and the president's official office are located here, and concerts and various solemn ceremonies are held in the Grand Kremlin Palace.
9. Hermitage
The Hermitage in St. Petersburg is the main treasury of Russia, in the literal and figurative sense of the word. In direct - because in the halls and storerooms of the museum there is a huge amount of priceless paintings, jewelry, sculptures and ceramics, which is not there! In a figurative way, because it reflects the culture and history of Russia and the whole world, this is a real book, or rather, a whole collection of works, but instead of a dry description of beautiful masterpieces, you can see them with your own eyes, it’s a pity you can’t touch.
The museum began in 1764 as a collection of paintings by Empress Catherine II the Great, who spent substantial sums to purchase paintings by brilliant European artists. Most of the paintings hung in the halls of the famous Winter Palace (the favorite residence of Russian emperors), which then received the name "Hermitage" (in French it means "a secluded place, shelter").
Initially, ordinary people could not admire the masterpieces - the museum was opened to the general public only in 1852. Anyone who has ever been to the Hermitage will remember it for the rest of their lives, because an absolutely incredible atmosphere reigns here, the luxury and magnificence of the halls of the palace will not leave anyone indifferent. Please note that for photo and video shooting you need to purchase a special ticket, and you can only take pictures without a flash.
10. St. Basil's Cathedral
This unusual and amazingly beautiful temple is located in the center of Moscow, on Red Square. You will find a description of the cathedral in any tourist guide, but it is better to see it with your own eyes, because it is impossible to describe it in words. It looks like a huge fire burning in the heart of the Russian capital: when the bright Moscow sun plays on its multi-colored domes, this is an incomparable sight.
The cathedral was erected in 1555-1561 by order of Ivan IV the Terrible. According to legend, after the construction was completed, the cruel Russian Tsar ordered the architects Barma and Postnik to be blinded so that they could no longer build anything equal to this temple in beauty and grandeur. The king achieved his goal - in no corner of the world there is anything like this architectural masterpiece.
11. Red Square
A walk along Red Square is the first thing every foreign tourist should do in the Russian capital. The main milestones in the history of Russia are connected with this place, as evidenced by historical monuments - the Execution Ground, where Russian tsars executed troublemakers, criminals and rebels; a monument to Kuzma Minin and Dmitry Pozharsky, who led the people's militia at the beginning of the 17th century to drive the Polish occupiers out of Moscow; the mausoleum of V. I. Lenin and much more.
On Red Square, various events dedicated to state holidays and military parades were regularly held (and are being held), from here on November 7, 1941, Soviet soldiers went straight to the front.
By the way, in the old days the word “red” meant “beautiful”, and if you see the square with your own eyes, you will understand why it was called that.
12. Derbent
The unique city of the Russian Republic of Dagestan is not very popular among tourists, but it is worth visiting if only to walk the streets of one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world.
Derbent is famous for its true Caucasian hospitality and rich cultural traditions. Among the main cultural and historical attractions are the Derbent wall, which is about 1.5 thousand years old, and Naryn-Kala, an ancient fortress that once faithfully served as the defenders of the city. The oldest Muslim temple in Russia, the Juma Mosque, built in 733, is also located here.
Derbent cognac, which is made from Dagestan grapes, is also among the sights of the city. If you happen to get to Derbent, be sure to try it. Now it is the second largest city in Dagestan: the population is about 100 thousand inhabitants, most of whom are Lezgins, Azerbaijanis and Tabasarans.
13. Altai Mountains
If you think that the most beautiful mountains on Earth are the Alps, then you have not been to Altai. This is the highest mountain system in Siberia, on its territory the borders of Russia, China, Mongolia and Kazakhstan converge, and unlike European mountain resorts, here not all the paths have been trampled by ubiquitous tourists.
The mighty and full-flowing Siberian rivers - the Ob, Irtysh and Yenisei - are born in the Altai Mountains, and in the amazingly beautiful valleys there are rare animals that you will not find anywhere else. There are many poachers here, with whom the authorities are trying to fight, but so far not very successfully, mainly because the officials themselves have been seen more than once in the extermination of unique representatives of the local fauna.
Since ancient times, original tribes and peoples have lived in Altai, somewhat similar to the Indians: they worship gods in the form of animals and practice pagan rituals.
This week, the results of the Russia 10 competition were summed up, the purpose of which is to select the main attractions of the country. The new visual symbols of Russia, chosen by popular vote (almost 225 million votes were taken into account in total), according to the organizers of the competition, are designed to promote the image of Russia as a unique country with a rich cultural and natural heritage.
We present you 10 winners of the competition, selected from over 700 objects.
(Total 10 photos)
1. Lake Baikal (Photo: Gennady Losev)
Baikal is the largest reservoir of high-quality fresh water, the deepest and one of the oldest lakes on Earth. In 2008, Baikal was recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Russia.
2. Rostov Kremlin (Photo: Valery Abramov)
The Kremlin was built in the 17th century as the Rostov Metropolis, that is, the residence for Metropolitan Jonah. Therefore, there is nothing formally to call it the Kremlin, the stone walls were quite decorative and should not have served to defend the city. The Kremlin has eleven towers in total. Inside there are several cathedrals, among which the Assumption Cathedral with its four-domed bell tower stands out. The Kremlin also became famous for the fact that it was here that episodes of Gaidai's film "Ivan Vasilyevich Changes His Profession" were filmed.
3. Peterhof (Photo: Ilya Shtrom)
Peterhof is a kind of triumphant monument to the successful completion of Russia's struggle for access to the Baltic Sea. The monument of world architecture and palace and park art includes a palace and park ensemble of the 18th-19th centuries, as well as the world's largest system of fountains and water cascades. The Peterhof Museum-Reserve unites 21 museums, including such unexpected ones as the Imperial Bicycles Museum, the Playing Card Museum and the Collectors Museum.
4. Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin (Photo: Alexander Sinderev)
From the annals it is known that Nizhny Novgorod was founded in 1221 by the Grand Duke of Vladimir Yuri Vsevolodovich. The defensive fortifications of the city - deep ditches and high ramparts - were originally built of wood and earth. The Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin became stone in 1515, when it became necessary to strengthen the defense of the city - the main stronghold of the Moscow State against the Kazan Khanate. The new Kremlin was surrounded by a two-kilometer wall with 13 towers. In the 16th century, the fortress was repeatedly besieged by the enemy, but the enemy was never able to capture it.
5. Mamaev Kurgan and the sculpture "The Motherland Calls" (Photo: Anastasia Andreeva)
The memorial to the Heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad was opened on Mamaev Kurgan in Volgograd in 1967. From the Square of Sorrow, the ascent to the top of the mound begins to the base of the main monument - "The Motherland Calls". Along the serpentine, in the hill, the remains of the soldiers - the defenders of Stalingrad were reburied. The statue by sculptor Vuchetich and engineer Nikitin is made of 5,500 tons of concrete and 2,400 tons of metal structures. The height of the monument is 86 meters, the height of the sculpture itself is 53 meters. At the same time, the thickness of the walls of the sculpture is no more than 30 centimeters. The sword in the hand of the Motherland weighs 14 tons and has a length of 33 meters. It is said that a car fits freely in the palm of the statue. In 2008, the statue of the Motherland on Mamaev Kurgan was also recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Russia.
6. Pskov Kremlin - Krom (Photo: Valery Abramov)
Pskov Krom is the largest fortress in Europe. The length of its walls is 9 kilometers, the area is 3 hectares. Krom is located on a narrow cape at the confluence of the Pskov River with the Velikaya River. Now the territory of the Kremlin unites two different parts of the city: Detinets with the Trinity Cathedral, the bell tower, Veche Square and Dovmontov city. The pride of Russian art of the 17th century is the seven-tiered iconostasis of the Trinity Cathedral. The most revered shrines of the temple include miraculous icons, an ark with the relics of Pskov saints and Holguin's cross. For many centuries, the threat of an enemy attack constantly hung over the city, which forced the people of Pskov to constantly improve defensive structures. The Pskov Kremlin has withstood 26 sieges in its history. The fortress, which was in active military use for almost 1000 years, has come down to us in almost its original form.
7. Mosque named after Akhmat Kadyrov "Heart of Chechnya" (Photo: Timur Agirov)
Mosque "Heart of Chechnya" in Grozny is considered one of the largest, most beautiful and majestic mosques in Europe and the world. It was opened on October 17, 2008 and named after Akhmat-Khadzhi Kadyrov, the first president of the Chechen Republic. The mosque is located on the picturesque bank of the Sunzha River, in the middle of a huge park with a cascade of colored fountains and night lighting. The outer and inner walls of the mosque are finished with marble, and the 36 chandeliers installed in the mosque resemble the three main shrines of Islam with their shapes: 27 chandeliers imitate the Kubbatu-as-Sakhra mosque in Jerusalem, 8 are modeled after the Rovzatu-Nebevi mosque in Medina and the largest, eight-meter chandelier, repeats the shape of the shrine of the Kaaba in Mecca. The creation of a collection of exclusive chandeliers took several tons of bronze, about three kilograms of gold, and more than one million parts and Swarovski crystals.
8. Trinity-Sergius Lavra (Photo: Vera Ostroumova)
The Trinity-Sergius Lavra is located in the center of the city of Sergiev Posad, Moscow Region, on the Konchura River. Founded in 1337 by St. Sergius of Radonezh. The earliest building of the monastery is considered to be the white-stone Trinity Cathedral, erected in 1422 on the site of a wooden temple and perpetuating the traditions of Moscow architecture of the 14th-15th centuries. This is a unique historical object, one of the few cathedrals where the iconostasis has been preserved, painted by the greatest icon painters - Andrei Rublev and Daniil Cherny. The relics of Sergius of Radonezh lie in the Trinity Cathedral, hundreds of parishioners come to bow to them every day. In 1744, the Trinity-Sergius Monastery was awarded the honorary title of Lavra. Today it is a functioning male monastery, the spiritual center of Orthodox Russia. Since 1940, the Trinity-Sergius Lavra has been a state museum-reserve. It is under the protection of UNESCO.
This is a unique historical, cultural and natural complex, which is a particularly valuable object of the cultural heritage of the peoples of Russia and a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site. The basis of the museum collection is the ensemble of the Kizhi Pogost. It consists of two churches and a bell tower of the 18th-19th centuries, surrounded by a single fence - a reconstruction of the traditional churchyard fences. The Church of the Transfiguration, rebuilt after a fire in 1714, was cut down from wood (including 22 domes and a cross), without nails, using an ax and a chisel. The long life of the Kizhi churches is explained by the fact that they were built without the use of a saw - the processing of wood with an ax does not violate its structure, so the churches do not collapse. In 1966, on the basis of the architectural ensemble of the Kizhi Pogost, the State Historical and Architectural Museum "Kizhi" was founded, where, in addition to the buildings existing in their original places, a large number of chapels, houses and outbuildings from Zaonezhye and other regions of Karelia were brought.
10. Kolomna Kremlin (Photo: Alexey Ustal)
The Kremlin in Kolomna is one of the most powerful fortresses of the Muscovite state, built in 1525-1531 during the reign of Vasily III. The Kremlin is located at the confluence of the Moscow and Kolomenka rivers. Unfortunately, time did not spare the Kremlin - only a few towers and a couple of fragments of the fortress walls remained from the fortress. Despite this, the Kremlin in our time impresses with its grandeur and power. The most interesting of the seven surviving towers is the Marinkina or Kolomenskaya Tower. A legend is connected with this tower: the wife of False Dmitry, Marina Mnishek, was allegedly imprisoned here. At present, the military-historical sports and cultural complex is located on the territory of the Kremlin. Knightly tournaments and games of knights, competitions of fighters, wrestlers and shooters, ancient rites, folk holidays and fairs are held here.
The 30 finalists of the competition also included the Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni Temple, the Kungur Cave, the Solovetsky Archipelago, the Curonian Spit, the Valley of Geysers, the cable-stayed bridges in Vladivostok and other attractions.