On a bitter cold Saturday morning in January....
We bundled up and headed out with our tour guide Svieta to the Peter and Paul Fortress. I didn't really know what we were going to see. All I knew was that it was a church on the shore of the Neva River.
As the day went on I learned that a lot of the history of St Pete's begins at the Peter and Paul Fortress. It was one of the very first buildings constructed, and was built by Peter the Great (well not him personally, but you get it...) and it is beautiful. It is a Russian Orthodox church of course, but was designed by and italian architect, so it looks more like a catholic church. The inside is made completely of wood from lime trees, and then that is covered by a layer of gold that is thinner than a strand of hair. Crazy huh? It is so intense when you walk in, I can't believe that it has lasted so long, because it is over 300 years old. It is one of the only buildings that survived the Blockade during WWII.
This was our first look at the Peter and Paul Fortress... You have to go over the little bridge (its on an island) and then it is inside a huge stone wall!! GORGEOUS!!!
This was right before we went inside the walls of the fortress. And right before we took this picture a cannon shot telling us that it was noon. (it scared us all half to death) They have been doing that ever since they built the fortress. Its a Russian tradition.
Inside the walls...
Everything was sooooo colorful!
Narnia? What?
This was my first look inside the church...yes sarah's hands are covering her face, we were all in awe!! It was beautiful
Every ceiling in the old building was more decorated than the walls, amazing!
There were about 10 chandeliers inside...
This was at the front of the chapel...who knows what its for...well i guess a Russian Orthodox would. But it was all gold, and look how well preserved.
The whole gang!
Right behind us is the place where the czar and his family would stand during church services. There are no chairs or pews in Russian Orthodox churches, you only stand.
Peter the Greats Tomb! Ahhh can you believe it? All of the czars of Russia are buried in this church along with their wives and one exception......
THE ROMANOV FAMILY
They have a seperate room dedicated to the Romanov's. It was so touching and special to see this. I had chills!
This is the tomb/memorial of Anastasia!
Yes...we were touched!
Next we went to the St Petes Museum....and I'm runnin out of time so this will be brief, just some pics of the rest of the day...
Dyl...this is how they disco skate in Russia!!!
I ended the day in Jail...it was such a long night! Just kidding, we went through the old prison as well where they kept many terrible people...stalin's brother died here even! WOW
It was such an amazing day!! I love all the history that I am learning! Not as much as I love you all!! I'll post again soon!
Love, Dima Bilan hehe
1 comment:
DENA!! I can't believe you are in Russia. I didnt have any idea you were doing this. Today we went to Duchesne to Jacquie Davies baby shower and your mom was there she told me all about your blog and how you were teaching in Russia. So when i got home i had to check out your blog. i love blogs they are such a good way to stay in touch with family and their busy lives. I am so excited that you are over there. it sounds like a great experience. your mom said you were with a bunch of friends. that sounds like a blast and a great learning experience. I miss you I havnt seen you in forever and you are gone for 8 months. i am happy for you. Glad i get to read your blog and see whats going to. Love you/ Kelsi
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