Kirillo Belozersky Monastery
Northern Russia 2009
The 14th century monastery, whose massive walls give it the look of a fortress, is located on the edge of White Lake. Shown is one of the many buildings (churches, libraries and dormitories for monks).
The monastery was one of the richest in Russia at one time, but after communism, the treasures (books, icons and sacred vessels) were taken to Moscow and it was turned into a museum. Now, the Orthodox Church holds the liturgy here and I think I saw some nuns going into what looked like a convent. They closed the door before I could get a good look!