July 12, Russian Art, Sparrow Hills, Cavier and more!

Today was a whirlwind so this will be a whirlwind update. There is so much history, arts, architecture, that your head spins. Our wonderful guide, Katerina picked us up at 10am and whisked us by car with driver to a place called Sparrow Hills. It is the highest point from which to view the entire city. Katerina pointed out Stalin's seven sisters, the seven buildings Stalin commissioned that rise out of the horizon seemingly at random and with no pattern. They are massive and ornate, some garish but others like Moscow University, which was located directly behind us) an architectural wonder. It is told that a university student never left the building for 5 years he was there because it is so massive that it is like a small city unto itself. We toured Tolstoy's home and spent the afternoon at the Tretyakov Museum, the museum which houses the largest collection of Russian art. We loved it. Getting to know the Arts of a Country is like looking into its soul. Russia has a difficult past and seeing how their art has been inspired by it gave us great insight into these complex peoples. We also went to Christ The Savior Cathedral that was having a Russian Orthodox service. There are no pews in the church and parishioners wander from icon to icon during the mass, lighting candles in some places, kissing the figure of Jesus at another. Strict adherence to the dress code was wearing clothing that covered the knees and legs and covering the shoulders. Many of the older female attendees covered their heads, too. Tonight was caviar night!!! We researched the best restaurant for caviar that was in walking distance and Russians don't believe in Taxicabs. No kidding. One must make plans for a cab ahead of time and hope that you will get picked up for a return ride. Katerina says many people just stop motorists, negotiate a price, and that is how it is done. Sort of Russky hitch-hiking. She didn't suggest it for us though. Ok, I led you to caviar but I will finish tomorrow as I am whipped tonight ...we went to the Bolshoi Ballet. See you tomorrow!