Kizhi is a unique open-air museum, a small island on Onega Lake in the Republic of Karelia, northwest Russia.
Karelia counts about 60 000 lakes, the biggest are Ladoga and Onega lakes.
Kizhi island is located in a fantastic area, a natural labirinthum of hundreds of picturesque islands and bays. Multicolored meadows, rocky shores covered with pine-trees reflecting in the deep blue waters of Onega lake – this is one of the most beautiful places of Russian North.
Kizhi is world known for its wooden architecture under UNESCO protection: the Transfiguration Church, the Church of the Intercession, The Bell Tower of Kizhi Pogost dating from the 17th century, totally over 80 historical wooden structures, a true fairy tale scenery.
The churches are famous for their beauty and longevity, despite that they are built exclusively of wood and without using a single nail.
Read more: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/544
Best time to visit Kizhi: June – August, though Kizhi ensemble is open every day all year round.
How to get there:
Combined visit St.-Peterburg – Valaam island – Kizhi island is highly recommended.
