The approach to Uglich is memorable because of the brightly colored churches. Uglich flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries and was favored by Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century. Dmitry, Ivan's son, was murdered by Boris Godunov as he seized the crown. On the spot where the murder took place the city built the magnificent St. Demetrius on the Blood.
We met our "movie star" guide, Robert, and he led us to the Church of St. Dimitrius on the Blood.
Here, again, we saw more beautiful icons and frescos. We were then treated to a concert by a men's choir---and this was all at 9am!
We then were taken to a Russian home where a lovely Russian woman had prepared her table for us. We had toasts with her homemade vodka to health, happiness and continued travels. Svetlana translated for us and we all asked questions to her. She was born in this house that her parents built by themselves after WW II. She was a retired teacher and liked artistic hobbies. Everyone agreed it was one of the highlights of the trip.
The sun came out so everyone enjoyed a Russian lunch on the outside deck. We went through locks on the Volga river, went under lovely bridges and admired the countryside. As we get closer to Moscow the homes along the river get bigger.
Our evening ended with a fairy tale production by some of the passengers.
Hi Gail,
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Manhattan Beach. We have really enjoyed reading your Russia blog. You are very good at conveying the essence of our experience there. When did you sleep?
Do you have an address for Bill and Pam. Bill slept through the engine room tour and I fear the trip won't be complete for him until he sees pictures of it.
Pat and Gerry