Religion has played a very important role in the evolution of Russian culture. Traditional religions, those deemed part of Russia’s “historical heritage”, include Orthodox Christianity (63% of the population), Islam (6% of the population), Buddhism (<1%), and Judaism (<1%). (VCIOM 2006) The largest of the religions, Orthodox Christianity, is...
read more
Religion in Ukraine has a somewhat different “mix” of faiths as compared to religion in Russia. Although the region was once home to rather large Muslim and Jewish communities, Islam and Judaism have diminished significantly from their historic heights. Ukraine, unlike Russia, is predominately Christian, with greater than 90% of religiously active...
read more
The Golden Ring is a collection of historic towns and cities situated northeast of Moscow. The area offers a fascinating glimpse into Russian history and architecture. Old white stone churches, fortifications, fortresses, and monasteries can be found throughout the region. Journey times from Moscow to most cities of the region are no more than a couple of hours by...
read more
Foreigners are often unfamiliar with Russian and Ukrainian architecture. Most everyone knows about the onion domed cathedrals and the dull and dreary construction from the Soviet era, but little else. The truth is, Russia and Ukraine have gone through many periods of architectural development, from wooden-vernacular architecture that predates Kiev Rus’, to...
read more
Russian ballet, an art form inherited from Western Europe, has earned an international reputation of excellence. Very few nations have achieved so much in the development and innovation of the art. Prominent Russian composers, choreographers and dancers have long garnered high regard both at home and on the world stage. History / Background Must See Ballet...
read more
