Monday, October 27, 2008

Palaces of Moscow

There are many places to see in Moscow, but some are more important that others. One of our Russian travel recommendations is  Moscow palaces.

Moscow is famous for numerous palaces, which were built during different historical periods. Being the central and the most important city of the country, Moscow has always attracted nobles and Russian tsars, so many of them had built palaces there. Surely not all of the palaces survived, but several did and nowadays represent Russian art and architecture of past centuries.

The Petrovsky palace was built in the 18th century by an outstanding Russian architect of that time Matvei Kazakov. The architectural plan of the Petrovsky palace forms a square, surrounded by brick fortress walls with towers. This palace combines the architectural techniques of neoclassicism with the romantic features of Gothic.

Demidov palace was built in the period from 1779-1791by an outstanding Russian architect Matvei Kazakov. At first, the palace belonged to prince Kurakin, who later sold it to I.I. Demidov. During the time only two outbuildings of the palace survived, but even now their luxury attracts tourists. Famous golden rooms with molded mirrors and gorgeous parquet, as well as damask wallpapers captivate the visitors at once.

Pashkov House is known among Muscovites as Pashkovs palace. The design of the building makes it look as a pure masterpiece of the original Russian classicism. Architect Vasily Bazhenov built the palace by the order of rich landowner Pashkov. The main building of the place was used as a male boarding school for nobility children until 1861 and then the Rumiantsev Museum moved there. Nowadays Pashkovs Palace is the Russian State Library or RGB, which is the biggest library in Europe and the second in the whole world. The reading rooms are designed for 2100 seats.

Moscow palaces are a “must” on any Russia travel itinerary. When you make your travel to Russia plans, make sure you plan visits to few palaces.

Posted by ivailen at 01:49:36 | Permalink | Comments (3)

Sunday, October 12, 2008

A monastery that should be included in a travel plan

Religion has always played a very important role in the life of the country. Many of Russian cities have numerous monasteries and churches that were built in past centuries.

Being the capital of the country Moscow is not only the cultural, economic and cultural center of the country, but also its religious center.

Many new churches are built in Moscow; many are being reconstructed as they have been nearly destroyed during the long Soviet period. The Russian Orthodox Church makes great efforts to reconstruct religious monuments of the past and preserve them for the next generations.

There are several Znamensky monasteries in Russia. In different cities of the country you can find Znamensky Monastery. Znamensky Monastery in Moscow is situated in the Kitai-Gorod. It is also known by the name “Monastery of the sign”.

Novgorod is the oldest city in Russia and there you can find another Znamensky Monastery, which was built in the 15th century. Though it has fallen into the state of disrepair, but is still popular attraction for the tourists.

Monasteries of the same name can be found in different parts of the country, so you will have to make tours in Russia to see all of them. So don’t forget to include the monastery in your travel plan, as each of these monasteries differ from each other and are worth seeing and comparing.

Tip: One of the best ways to see many Russian monasteries is by going on one of Russian river cruises. Russian cruises dock in ancient Golden Ring towns. Russia cruise is one of the best ways to see Russia as many experienced travelers agree.

Posted by ivailen at 23:08:58 | Permalink | Comments (2)