The Konstantino-Yeleninsky convent

In 1892 in St. Petersburg a church was consecrated in honour of monk and martyr Andrew of Crete. Christians celebrate this great saint every year on October 17th. It was also on this day in 1888 that a train with the imperial family on board derailed near Kharkov. It was by some kind of miracle that Tsar Alexander III and his family were spared while many others were killed. A church was erected in order to mark the royal family’s fortunate deliverance from death. RTG TV host Nadezhda Lebedeva visited what is nowadays known as the Konstantino-Yeleninsky Monastery where she learned about the history of its construction, as well as that of the church of Saint Andrew of Crete. She also found out about the relics kept a the monastery.

Now on air
14:30
The Konstantino-Yeleninsky convent
THE VLADIMIR HEAVY DRAFT. A HORSE HISTORY

In the 19th century, breeding stallions from abroad were brought to Russia’s Vladimir Governorate to breed with the best, largest, and strongest local mares. By the mid-1930s, breeders had managed to create an almost ideal horse. The new Vladimir breed was registered in 1946. This horse is known for its power, hardiness, and friendly nature, and these gentle giants are said to have a particularly Russian character. Its ancestors carried knights and heavy cannons, but the new breed was originally intended to be used for agricultural tasks. And today? What has become of them? Learn about the Vladimir Heavy Draft and its history, on Russian Travel Guide.

Now on air
14:30
THE VLADIMIR HEAVY DRAFT. A HORSE HISTORY
Active leisure in the Leningrsd oblast

Leningrad Oblast is a region full of lakes and pine forests. Fans of active leisure love these places not just for their picturesque nature, but also for the opportunity to experience the extreme. One popular attraction is the Orekh Rope Course, which includes various courses with obstacles of varying difficulty. The cumulative course length totals over 3,000 metres. Those who love horseback riding will also find a lot to do while on holiday in Leningrad Oblast. Equestrian clubs in the area provide guests with a variety of riding trails and there visitors can learn how to build a bond with a horse and how to sit securely and comfortably in the saddle. Rafting aficionados can travel to the town of Losevo, located just a couple of hours from St. Petersburg. There they can choose the rafting programme that suits them best – family, classic or extreme. RTG TV host Nadezhd...

Now on air
14:15
Active leisure in the Leningrsd oblast