New Jerusalem Trip & Russia Day

On Tuesday June 12th, Russia Day is celebrated. Also known as Independence Day, Russian parliament formally declared its sovereignty on this day in 1990. I took a trip to Istra with some folks from the Embassy. Istra is known for the New Jerusalem Monastery, which was founded by Patriarch Nikon in 1656. It was wonderful to be out of the city and enjoy Russia Day festivities.

New Jerusalem Trip 12 June 07