Visit Russia

The word “icon” is derived from the Greek “eikon” that means an image or representation, but in more restricted sense it is understood as a holy image to which special veneration is given. The word “icon” is mostly applied to different kinds of religious images, which are usually painted on wooden panels. There are also icons that are painted on walls (frescoes) and those made from small glass (mosaic).Icons can be also found engraved on metal and ivory.

Icon painting can be considered a part of Russian culture and art. Beginning from old times icons played a very important role in the life of most Russian people. Icons were placed at home, in church and even taken on journey and especially at war. Most Russian people believed that icons can make wonders. In different parts of the country there were sacred places in monasteries were holy icons were preserved.

The most interesting Russia tours take you to great Russian monasteries for a chance to see these icons.
There are several collections of icons that can be seen in the Hermitage, but surely it is not the only place in Russia where you can admire icons. During your Russian vacation, you can visit Novgorod, which is the oldest city in Russia. There you will find a great number of Russian icons that date back to the 11 century. Icon painting is a very important part of the medieval Russian culture. You can also explore many monasteries when you sail on Russian cruises or on the Volga River.

Nowadays most of the Novgorodian icons are scattered all over the world due to some events in the Russian history, such as the 1917 Revolution in Russia. The oldest among Novgorodian icons is “The Holy Aposties Peter and Paul”, which decorates the altar screen in the Cathedral of St. Sophia.