Caviar Harvesting In The Astrakhan Region Of Russia, 1960

These pictures were taken during 1960 in the Soviet Union. Caviar has always been a staple of Eastern European cuisine. The finest caviar being Russian caviar from the Sturgeon.  These pictures show the laborers in the environment getting the cash crop. For more posts like these of the old Soviet days go to the excellent website http://kcmeesha.com/

Photos are provided by Life Magazine

Russia’s Wooden Churches Are Vanishing

I was recently turned on to a story out of Russia. It seems their characteristic wooden churches (architectural wonders) are falling by the wayside due to natural disasters and lack of maintenance. Truly a shame to such beautiful buildings.

Be sure to visit http://www.richarddavies.co.uk/woodenchurches/ for Mr. Richard Davies website and for information on his new book ( “Wooden Churches – Travelling in the Russian North “) about the churches. Here is an excerpt of the story and a link to the full story and video. I added a gallery as well of some beautiful churches still standing as well. Maybe if we all turn our attention to this matter we can make a difference. Enjoy!

“The wooden church, one of Russia’s unique architectural treasures, is in danger of extinction. Once dotting the landscape by the thousand, years of harsh weather, fires, war and neglect have not been kind. Today, some 200 churches remain, most dating from the 1700s and located in the northern regions of Arkhangelsk, Karelia, and Vologda. “

Full story is here http://www.rferl.org/media/soundslide/24564914.html

As always, great praise and thanks to all the photographers featured here. Excellent shots!

Get involved in this cause! The loss of these building would be a irreversible cultural loss.