Kizhi Island is a “must see” attraction in Russia. It is home to incredible collection of monuments of wooden architecture.
Kizhi Pogost
Kizhi Pogost (churchyard) is the heart of Kizhi island. It is represented by the Church of the Transfiguration, the Church of the Intercession, and a bell tower located between these two churches.
The 22-dome Church of the Transfiguration of Our Savior (built in 1714) is the key sight of the place. It was designed and constructed as a summer cathedral: services were held there only in the summer time. Fascinating multiple cupolas of the cathedral and the mastery of its builders captivate the visitors.
Next to the Church of Transfiguration we see the 9-dome 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 bell tower into a unique wooden ensemble.
Church of Lazarus of Murom
It is believed to be 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 of Kizhi from Murom Monastery, situated at the southern shore of Lake Onego.
Chapels of Kizhi
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.
Kizhi Island domestic architecture
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”.
Nature
The area is rich with species of birds, animals and trees, which are under protection. Boat and walking eco tours can be arranged.
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 Kizhi museum
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.
Accommodation at Kizhi Island
There is a nice guesthouse in the village of Ersnevo, just over the strait from Kizhi. It has several twin/triple rooms, all with en-suite WC and shower.
