| The sacred object of Russian culture that had to overcome a great deal of adversities and sorrows, fires and destroying, but like any true object of worship, survived and is raising now over the every-day fuss....the sacred corn of the Russian heart and soul.... |
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| Since the 17th century this Orthodox spiritual center has been the place of pilgrimage and remains such until now. Located in the picturesque Tatar Republic, at the very doors of the great Kazan City, this monastery is buried in verdure of surrounding wood and its marvelous buildings are reflected in the waters of a crystal-clean nameless lake. |
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| Every day lots of tourists and pilgrims arrive here - some - to pray to the wonder-working icon Of God Mother of Georgia - the symbol of the monastery, the others - to enjoy the lake calmness and sit in its Floating Chapel, the third - to fetch some sacred water having its source here, the water containing silver - so necessary for health, both outer and inner and simply to walk around the monastery admiring at its Belfry, the Troitskiy Cathedral, Over-the- Gates Church and taking some pictures. Out of doubt, the ancient cemetery, now used as a flower garden full of eye-catching flowers spreading their divine fragrance, will impress you greatly. Gazing at all this beauty and seeing some happy couples walking hand in hand on the monastery territory, you'll sure long to have a romantic walk there with your sweetheart too and share your happiness and joy with everybody around. |
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| Strange as it may seem to you, but despite all the people making their pilgrimage here, the Raifa Monastery is a receptacle of peace, calmness and beauty. While leaving it one experience the same feeling: the feeling one usually has when walking on a warm sunny spring day, a light breeze caressing your face and your heart filled with inexplicable peace and happiness - just the happiness of existence. |
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| That's true, everybody who once visited the Raifa Monastery is longing to come here again. One can't touch or smell beauty, one can only feel and keep it in his heart and soul and the Raifa Monastery sure gives this chance... |
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