Maps · Monarchies · Museums · Observations · Science · Nature · Reportage

Prince Albert I and his ocean research instruments at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Our stroll through the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco continues. In the frame: equipment for exploring the seabed and taking soil samples, along with preserved marine fauna from the time of the museum's founder, Prince Albert I, who, after service in the French navy, devoted his leisure to a

Many books laid out in tight rows, among them “Arbatsky arkhiv”, “Kreml za reshyotkoy” and “Gubernatory i khany”.

NB! · Books · Observations · Reportage

Books from past years and rare editions at the Nonfiction fair

I barely escaped the Nonfiction fair with my life. Pleased with my purchases; best of all, there were plenty of books from past years and even some rare editions

Baroque palace with blue walls, white columns and a green roof under an overcast sky, with a lawn in front.

NB! · Architecture · Observations · Heritage · Reportage

A visit to Khmelita, the Griboyedovs' baroque palace in the Smolensk region

In September I had the good fortune to visit the Khmelita estate. I had long followed the fortunes of the Baroque palace of the Griboyedovs in the Smolensk region, yet I was surprised all the same by its beauty on making its personal acquaintance.

Books · Observations · Mores · Reportage

Visit to a warehouse sale of old things, furniture and books with a 1000 rouble entry fee

Went to a junk sale today. There is an organisation that collects unwanted things and furniture, free of charge or for a small sum for the items or the removal. This cast-off stuff ends up in a warehouse, for entry to which they charged 1000 roubles today, and after

NB! · Faith · Paris · Reportage

the pilgrimage from Notre-Dame de Paris to Notre-Dame de Chartres is one of the largest in Europe and is dedicated to Pentecost (the 10th day after the Ascension and the 50th day after Easter), the feast of the descent of the Holy Spirit