Kizhi island is a “must see” attraction in Russia. It is home to incredible collection of monuments of wooden architecture.
The heart of Kizhi architectural ensemble is represented by the Church of the Transfiguration, the Church of the Intercession, and a bell tower located between these two churches.
The twenty-two-domed Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior (built in 1714) is the key sight of the Kizhi Pogost (churchyard). It was designed and constructed as a summer cathedral: services were held there only in the summer period. Fascinating multiple cupolas of the cathedral and the mastery of its builders captivate the visitors.
Next to the Church of Transfiguration we see the Church of the Intercession. It is considered to have been built in 1764, though some historians debate the exact timing of construction. The design and plan of this Church differ from the Church of Transfiguration. But at the same time the builders succeeded in combining both churches as well as the belltower into a unique wooden ensemble.
The Church of Lazarus of Murom is located nearby. It is the oldest monument of wooden architecture in Russia - the Church was built in the middle of the 14th century. This church was transferred to the island from the Murom Monastery, situated at the southern shore of Lake Onego, in 1960. In the 19th century, all the structures of the Monastery were renovated, except for the Church of Lazarus as it was regarded as a miraculous construction by the local people.
Several chapels are also a part of the ensemble. These are the Chapel of Archangel Mikhail (17-18th centuries), the Chapel of the Assumption of Virgin Mary (17-18th centuries), the Chapel of the Divine Savior (17-18th centuries), the Chapel of Peter and Paul (17th century), and many others. Each of them has its own long-running history.
Aside from churches and chapels, old wooden households are also located on the Island. These are water- and windmills, granaries, blacksmith’s shops, famous chimneyless bathhouses - or Russian smoke saunas, houses of peasants who once lived in the region.
During the visit of the houses of peasants of Sergeyev, Oshevnev, Elizarov and others, a visitor can learn a lot about the life of residents of Onego Lake Region, their traditions and customs.
The museum's collection includes a lot of icons of the 18-19th centuries. Particularly interesting are the icons "The Transfiguration of Christ", "The Lives of Abraham and Sarah" and “Sts. Zosima and Savvaty of Solovki with Lives”.
Kizhi Pogost is inscribed in the UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Nature of Kizhi
The Kizhi Reserve area is rich with species of birds, animals and trees, which are under protection.Boat and walking eco tours can be arranged to explore the nature.
There is an ecological trail on the very Island which goes from the boat pier to the Vernicle Chapel on Naryina Hill.
By motorboat, it is possible to visit natural sights on the islands of Bolshoy Klimenetskiy, Radkolye and Gryz.
Opening hours of the Museum of Kizhi
The museum of Kizhi is open daily without breaks and days-off.
Summer (01.05–31.08) — from 08.00 till 20.00;
Autumn (01.09–31.10) — from 09.00 till 18.00;
Winter (01.11–28.02) — from 10.00 till 16.00;
Spring (01.03–30.04) — from 09.00 till 17.00.
