Russia Beyond

10 masterpieces of contemporary Russian jewelry art (PHOTOS)

For more than 20 years, the Russia State Fund of Precious Metals and Precious Stones (‘Gokhran’) has been holding an annual competition among jewelers. And the best works are added to its collection.
Culture
What foreign products were available in the USSR?

Tangerines from Morocco, processed cheese from Finland, canned vegetables from Hungary and Bulgaria – Soviet housewives knew how to make an impressive holiday table spread.
History
What does the expression “not all the time is Maslenitsa for the cat” mean?

This phrase is part of a proverb that goes as follows: “Не все коту Масленица, будет и Великий пост” (“Ne vse kotu Maslenitsa, budet i Velikiy post”) or “not all the time is Maslenitsa for the cat, there will be Great Lent”.
Education
Did you know that Russian troops were once in Rome?

"The delight with which the residents greeted us brings the greatest honor and glory to the Russians. From the very gates of St. John to the soldiers' quarters, both sides of the streets were dotted with inhabitants of both sexes," reported Lieutenant Pyotr Balabin.
History
Did you know that Russia has its own Halloween?

In the West, October 31 is the eve of ‘All Saints' Day’, while, in Russia, it's ‘Veles Night’ after sundown and before dawn on November 1!
Culture