Culture & Customs

A brief look at the often time confusing issue of the 'old' and 'new' calendars used by Russia and the Russian Orthodox Church. This article contains links to indepth and more technical material on the subject.

Remote, wild and pristine, the Kamchatka peninsula is an adventure traveler's dream. We join Christine Seashore and her husband while they kayak the coast of this amazing region.

Duck, stuffed with rowanberries and celery. Just try to read this recipe and not rush out to the butcher...

Easter is the most important celebration of the Russian Orthodox Church. Find out what constitutes a traditional Pascha meal and read the Patriarch's message.

Soviet cosmonauts Valentina Tereshkova and Svetlana Svitskaya made history when they were the first woman in space and first woman to walk in space, respectfully. Elena V. Kondakova represents the new age of Russian Federation cosmonauts as a member of the US/Russian STS-84 crew.

Set against the backdrop of revolution and civil war the Avant-garde period in Russia was very dynamic. In honor of International Women's Day (March 8), we take a look at the lives and works of six very special Avant-garde artists.

A discussion of this unique spiritual art form with many colorful examples.

Siberians know their salmon. So where better to turn for a nice holiday recipe featuring this savory fish? The dish is called Salmon Steak a la Yakut.

Find out how a Bishop from Turkey became the patron saint of Moscow and Santa Claus to the world.

Scriptures and prayers for the Orthodox Feast Day of St. Nicholas of Myra.

The former capital of Siberia, Novosibirsk is a thriving city that the railroad made. This fifth installment in our East Across Siberia series also takes us to Tomsk and Barnaul

Vareniki with cherries -- boiled dumplings with a cherry filling, to be more precise-- is a holiday treat bequeathed to Russia from Ukraine.