Nizhny Novgorod Region in 3 Russian words

1. МИФИЧЕСКИЙ ГОРОД КИТЕЖ (The Mythical City of Kitezh)

According to legend, during the devastating Mongol invasion, the city of Kitezh became invisible and sank to the bottom of Lake Svetloyar, thereby escaping destruction. It’s believed that only those pure in heart and soul could see it. The story of this “ghost town” has inspired countless writers, poets, artists and filmmakers.

2. НИЖЕГОРОДСКИЙ КРЕМЛЬ (The Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin)

This is Russia's second-largest kremlin (after Moscow's), in terms of area, and one of the country's best-preserved fortresses. The kremlin wall stretches 2,080 meters and is five meters thick. Legend has it that the lost library of Ivan the Terrible lies hidden somewhere in its underground chambers.

3. ХОХЛОМСКАЯ РОСПИСЬ (Khokhloma Painting)

One of Russia's most famous folk crafts originated in the village of Khokhloma in the 17th century. Artisans paint floral, berry and bird motifs onto wooden tableware, then coat the pieces with varnish and fire it in a kiln (a thermally insulated oven or furnace). This process creates a “gold” effect without the use of any precious metals!