The small old town of Sergiev Posad is known far beyond the borders of Russia. The town revolves around the majestic Holy Trinity Lavra, one of the main spiritual centers of our country, founded by the luminary of Russian Orthodoxy, St Sergius of Radonezh. The monastery is not the only reason Sergiev Posad is famous, though. A traditional folk craft for the manufacture of children's toys started here as well. Legend has it that Father Sergius himself would cut out various wooden toys and whistles for children. Locals claim that the painted Russian matryoshka, probably the most sought for souvenir, and a real symbol of Russia, also originates from here. We invite you on a unique tour: see the ancient town and get acquainted with the famous Sergiev Posad toys. Most importantly, you get to make one yourself!
Highlights:
- Guided tour of the Holy Trinity-St Sergius Lavra: explore the wonderful Assumption Cathedral, and the legendary Trinity Cathedral, which houses the relics of St. Sergius of Radonezh. You will admire the wonderful five-tier iconostasis (many of the icons were painted in the 1400s by the reputed Andrei Rublev himself); visit the Refectory Chamber, one of the most beautiful structures in the ensemble of the Lavra. Next, a master class in clay pipes painting awaits.
- Visit to the Russian nesting doll museum: this seemingly inelaborate toy is one of the symbols of our country. Not a single foreign guest leaves Russia without this colourful souvenir. Learn about the history of the doll, the ornamental features in different regions of Russia.
- The voluminous collection of the Toy Museum (almost 30 thousand pieces!), interesting for visitors of all ages. Every day a small miracle happens here, and the magical land of our childhood comes to life on the shelves. All kinds of toys here: rag, clay, wooden... The special holiday section presents the Pancake week, the New Year’s, Christmas etc. You will see what simple peasant children and the heirs of the Russian throne played with as children. Everyone will be able to create a rag doll with their own hands during an exciting master class!
- Visit to the AOFIS dolls factory, where traditional Russian toys are made by the old technology (you will learn the details). See the works of the best masters and paint a wooden matryoshka doll in your own style during the creative workshop.
Adults return to their childhood, children become adult puppeteers… It’s your chance to leave Russia with a suitcase full of unique toys and souvenirs!
- Transportation
- English-speaking guide for the entire programme
- Entrance fees to museums
- Lunch
- Guided tours according to the programme
- Master classes
- Professional photographer to accompany you during the tour (pictures provided within 1 week)
Программа тура
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Pick-up in hotel lobby
08:50
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Transfer to Sergiev Posad
09:00-10:30
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Guided tour of the Holy Trinity-StSergius Lavra with a visit to the Trinity and Assumption Cathedral, as well as the temple in honour of the Venerable. Refectory Chamber
10:30
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Workshop in clay toy painting
11:30
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Guided tour of the Russian Matryoshka Museum
12:30
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Lunch
13:30
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Guided tour of the toy museum
14:30
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Master-class in rag doll sewing
15:00
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Tour of matryoshka factory with a master class in matryoshka painting
16:00
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Transfer to Moscow (approximate timing)
17:30-19:00