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A modern vacation in ancient Suzdal
The city of Suzdal, with its hilly landscapes, winding river and the ancient monuments marking the river banks, has long been a touristic hotspot. The city is a symbol of an early Russia - Suzdal celebrated its millennial almost immediately following the foundation of the Russian State. Even today Suzdal has managed to maintain its ancient charm – a quality that attracts people from all over the world. Despite its strong connection to the past, Suzdal is still a city full of modern life. RTG TV host Olga Degtyareva made a special trip to Suzdal to find out for herself just what type of holidays and activities the historic city has to offer.
THE ART OF LACEMAKING. VOLOGDA'S SNOWY PATTERNS
In the beginning was the word. Kruzhevo, the word for lace in Russian, is related to the word okruzhat’, or encircle, and was originally applied to any ornamentation decorating the hems or sides of a garment. It did not have to include an airy concatenation of thread. Some styles of embroidery, ornamental trimming, gems, and pearls were previously also called kruzhevo. It was not until the 17th century, in conjunction with the fashion for lace collars and cuffs, that the word kruzhevo came to refer to the specific decorative style we now know as lace. There are to this day many centers of lacemaking in Russia, each with its own history and style. But Vologda stands out, and is probably the most famous of all such locales. Lacemaking is a signature craft in this northern town. Vologda’s lace covers the city in a delicate gauze, clothing it in snowy-soft beauty all year round.
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THE ART OF LACEMAKING. VOLOGDA'S SNOWY PATTERNS
The Holy Trinity Alexander Nevsky monastery
One of Russia’s great Orthodox shrines, the Saint Alexander Nevsky Monastery (Lavra), has a history which coincides with the start of the construction of St. Petersburg itself. For three centuries believers have been visiting the monastery and just as they did hundreds of years ago, they travel here to find, practice and strengthen their faith and to pray to venerated icons. Nowadays the Alexander Nevsky Monastery is an active monastery of the St. Petersburg Diocese. Pilgrims and tourists travel here year-round from the farthest corners of the earth in order to see the house of prayer. It was founded by Peter the Great and has since become a symbol of the city and one of the most famous monasteries in Russia. This Russian Travel Guide programme explores the history of the construction of the esteemed monastery, looks at its life over the years and checks out the lavra’s ...
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