Places of Power: 5 locations in Russia with a very special atmosphere

President of Pro-Vision, author of the Vinogradov.story community

“Traveling around the world, you occasionally catch yourself thinking that certain places feel different from others. Somehow… special. In popular culture, such locations are called places of power and attribute to them the most amazing properties. And traveling to such locations is even singled out in a separate direction – “deep tourism”. There are places of power and in Russia – I will tell you about a few of them below.

Belukha and Belovodye, Altai

In general, the entire Altai Mountains are imbued with a special energy. Only part of the Altai places of power is quite real, and the other is rather legendary. Mount Belukha is about reality; equidistant from all oceans, it is considered the “center of the world” and one of the five peaks, geologically “reinforcing” our planet. Natives of Altai consider Belukha sacred and try not to disturb its monumental peace.

Behind Belukha the entrance to the fairy-tale country Belovodie opens – and it is already a part of the legend about “Russian Shambala”, which is shown only to the chosen ones. The special mood of these places so echoed in the souls of travelers that often became an inspiration for creativity. Thus, Belovodie was transferred to canvas by Nicholas Roerich – and supplemented the work with a diary, where he explained in detail how to get there.

Olkhon Island, Baikal

When the dark night falls on the lake and the waves calm down, one can hear the heart of Baikal beating on Olkhon. The lake itself, the island, Burkhan with Shamanka rock, and Bogatyr cape are considered sacred by Buryats and therefore require special treatment – respectful, careful and reverent.

But they also give a lot in return: everyone who comes to the island feels its undeniable power and energy, beating from under the ground, knocked down by the Baikal wind and settled by the splashing waves. In the tradition of shamanism nature is a temple, and the temple of Olkhon will definitely make even the most cynical traveler reconsider his views.

Moscow

The capital is used to living at high speeds, instantly forgetting what seemed important and relevant yesterday. Moscow is a place where time is compressed. It is valued here above all else: they pay for it on Sadovoye and Kutuzovskoye, they try to keep up with it on the deep escalators of “VDNKh” and “Park Pobedy”, they cherish it and make it an absolute at protracted meetings in the City. Moscow does not tolerate laggards, but patronizes those who are ahead of the curve. And it certainly inspires. A real place of strength for all those who consider happiness synonymous with success.

Valaam Island, Karelia

According to legend, it was Andrew the First-Called himself who ordered to set up an Orthodox cross and establish a monastery on Valaam. Thus, in the middle of the harsh Ladoga there appeared a place cut off from vanity and worldly troubles, a place of deep humility and union with God. The Valaam Monastery was repeatedly compared to the ground, but it was always restored – the firm faith of the monks helped.

In these gloomy lands, where even a primitive life is quite difficult to establish, majestic cathedrals and secluded sketes were founded, which formed a surprisingly harmonious ensemble with the nature of lake Karelia. Valaam is a place where you get there at the call of your heart. And where you really relax not only your body, but also your soul.

The place where you were born

On the map of all-Russian “places of power” everyone has the right to put one unique point – the place of his birth. How “small homeland” inspires and excites writers, artists and musicians can be judged at least by the endless stream of creativity, singing and the village of Konstantinovo in Ryazan province, and the outskirts of St. Petersburg, and industrial Ural villages. Nostalgia for the place where you were born and will always be your own, is converted not only into memories, but also into creative energy. This means the power that fills each of us.