Kizhi. Wooden Church Architecture

The first churches appeared in Russia in the 10th century, built by Byzantines. These constructions served as models for Russian architects. They were models in stone, however. In the forested northern parts, everything was built in wood – a material that was cheap, light and easy to work with. The Russian architects, like translators, had to interpret the Byzantine canon in wood. Gradually, the Russian masters developed their own style of construction. Wooden architecture reached its peak in the Russian north in the 15th to 18th century. Learn how unique churches arose on the island of Kizhi, and hear the legends that surrounded them in a film by RTG TV.

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Kizhi. Wooden Church Architecture
Astrakhan-style fish dishes

The largest river delta in Europe — the Volga Delta - is located in southern Russia and teeming with fishermen almost year-round. RTG TV presenter Igor Maximenko visited the popular fishing spot to cast his rod and learn how to prepare some original dishes from the local catch.

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Astrakhan-style fish dishes
The Konevets monastery

Historically, Russia’s northern territory has been particularly attractive to monks due to its isolated location and sparse population. It therefore comes as no surprise that the first Russians to set foot on the islands of Lake Ladoga were none other than those in search of solitude — monks. The island of Konevets, though small in size, offers its inhabitants complete privacy. Here one has the chance to, in complete peace, reflect upon life and listen to their soul. Such important moments are those which will be remembered forever and which will be of great use during times when all the heart desires is a moment of peace and quiet. Simply remember the moments spent on the waters of Lake Ladoga, surrounded by the quiet forest, the winding sandy shore and the peaceful, quiet atmosphere. It is no wonder that one of the gems of the Russian North, the Konevsky Monastery, is fou...

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The Konevets monastery