Today, Russia is home to 47 indigenous peoples, classified as “autochthonous” or small-numbered. These groups live on the ancestral lands of their forebears, preserving traditional lifestyles, crafts, and customs. Below are some of the most fascinating and unusual traditions from these communities. Learn why Ingrian brides shaved their heads, why the Nganasans left their deceased…
Long before modern medicine and science reached rural corners of Russia, people relied on deeply rooted folk customs to explain the unexplainable. Some of these age-old rituals may seem shocking, surreal, or even macabre today—but they were once taken seriously as essential parts of village life. Here are six of the strangest ancient rituals that…
Many of these customs can only be found in ethnographers’ academic research — and some may come as a shock. Much of this stems from the remnants of ancient magical cults that survived among some of Russia’s small ethnic groups well into the 20th century. Wife Swapping Among the Chukchi The Chukchi had a tradition…
Russian TikTok is currently serving up some of the most unexpected trends among young women—ranging from rugged career moves to eyebrow-raising diet fads. While some are heading to the Arctic for high-paying rotational jobs (and a better dating pool), others are ditching vegetables entirely and eating butter straight from the pack. Here’s a closer look…
This week brings depressive, sad, and even alarming headlines from across Russia. 129 Russian Cities May Disappear 129 Russian cities are on the brink of disappearing due to depopulation, according to RANEPA (Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration). 3.4 million people are affected. Among them: Verkhny Tagil, Inta, Kem, Torzhok, and Okha….
The history of Soviet experiments with electric vehicles includes a wide range of passenger cars, trucks, and buses. Particularly notable progress occurred in the 1970s, thanks to advancements in electrical engineering, electronics, and chemical power sources. Institutions such as the Research Institute of Motor Transport (NIIAT), the All-Union Research Institute of Electromechanics (VNIIEM), the All-Union…
The Manpupuner Stone Pillars on the plateau in the Komi Republic have long attracted the attention of scientists and tourists from all over the world. Many legends and myths surround these “stone guardians,” which are as tall as a 15-story building. One of the Seven Wonders, Manpupuner means “Small Mountain of Idols” in the Mansi…
Saint Petersburg is not only about palaces, cathedrals, and canals. It has many hidden gems, known only to the locals and definitely worth visiting. Rooftops, communal apartments, cafes and bars, ancient courtyards, and other unusual places help travelers see the city from a new perspective. Rooftops of Petersburg One of the best ways to enjoy…
Moscow is rightfully considered one of the best tourist destinations. The city is rapidly developing and can surprise even the most experienced travelers. If you think you’ve already seen all the capital’s sights, don’t be too quick to give up on trips to the golden-domed city, because even the most well-trodden paths can reveal unusual…
