Kizhi Island is one of over 1650 islands of Lake Onega, in the Karelia Republic in Russia. Located approximately 300 km from St. Petersburg, Onega Lake is the second largest lake in Europe after Lake Ladoga. Kizhi is one of the largest open air museums in Russia, features a beautiful ensemble of 83 wooden structures, most of which date back to the 16th.

The highlight of the Island is the Kizhsky Pogost, include two churches and a octagonal bell-tower standing between them. One of the churches is 32-domed Transfiguration Church, built in 1714. The interior is decorated with four stunning stepped iconostasis consisting of 18th century icons. It is a most popular destination for religious travelers.

These impressively buildings are built created by the carpenters without a single nail. This impressive ancient model of parish space create one of the most unique open air museums of our time. In 1991 the whole area of Kizhi has been added to the World Cultural inheritance of the UNESCO.

The Kizhi outdoor museum allows visitors to experience the ancient cultures and crafts of the Russian north. It is open to the public from May 25 to October 15 from 9.00 AM. to 8.00 PM. For more info click here.