GEORGE MAJESKA

Professor Emeritus George Majeska taught Russian and Byzantine history at the University of Maryland for more than 25 years. George was among the first American graduate students to participate in a U.S. exchange program with the U.S.S.R. when he spent a year at Leningrad State University. His chief scholarly interest is Russian cultural history, and as a frequent visitor to Russia, George will share his perspectives on the rapid transformation of this once communist country to the emerging capitalist society of today.

June 30 and July 1 New York/Moscow, Russia
Depart on an overnight flight from New York for Moscow. Arrive in Moscow and board the M.S. Viking Kirov.
(D)

July 2 Moscow
Take a walking tour of the Kremlin, the seat of Russia's rulers since the tsars. See the Armory Chambers, where Russian jewels, sable-fringed crowns, and pearl-seeded wedding dresses are preserved. Spend the rest of the day touring Moscow, including St. Basil's Cathedral; Red Square; the Kremlin; Sparrow Hills; Moscow State University; the Parliament building; and the recently reconstructed Christ the Savior Cathedral, destroyed by the communists in 1931. Take a rooftop walk beneath the gilded domes for a lovely panoramic view of the capital before visiting the impressive collection of the Tretyakov Gallery. This evening, attend a performance of the Moscow Circus.
(B,L,D)

July 3 Moscow
Spend the morning exploring the Novodevichy Convent with its shimmering 16th-century frescoes. This afternoon, begin our journey up the Moscow Canal toward the Volga River.
(B,L,D)

July 4 Uglich
Arrive in Uglich, one of Russia's oldest towns, first recorded in 1148. Uglich's turbulent history of fires and invasions earned it the nickname "martyr city." Visit the Church of the Dormition with its distinct pyramidal roof.
(B,L,D)

July 5 Yaroslavl'
Today, discover Yaroslavl's exceptionally well preserved architectural treasures, including the church of the Epiphany, adorned with gaily colored ceramic tiles; and the church of St. Elijah the Prophet, still boasting its original frescoes.
(B,L,D)

July 6 Goritsy/Cruising the Volga
Visit the Belozersk Monastery of St. Kirill. Originating in the 15th-century, the monastery reflects the history, architecture, and art of the region. This afternoon, while cruising, experience a traditional Russian tea party with cookies and tea brewed in a samovar.
(B,L,D)

July 7 Kizhi Island/Lake Onega
Arrive at the extraordinary island of Kizhi. This exceptional and timeless place of pristine beauty has been converted into a museum displaying examples of traditional wooden architecture. Foremost is 18th-century Cathedral of the Transfiguration, whose delicate walls and 22 cupolas were constructed without a single nail.
(B,L,D)

July 8 Cruising the Volga
Take a Russian-language class, participate in a lively roundtable discussion, and relax and watch the beautiful passing river scenes as the ship sails to St. Petersburg.
(B,L,D)

July 9 St. Petersburg
Start your exploration of St. Petersburg with a drive down Nevsky Prospekt, the city's main thoroughfare. Stop at the Peter and Paul Fortress and St. Isaac's Cathedral before having lunch downtown. Then, continue on to a spectacular, private tour at the Russian Geographical Society. Visit the fantastic icon collection at the Russian Museum, then attend a performance at one of the city's fine theaters.
(B,L,D)

July 10 St. Petersburg
Travel along the Gulf of Finland to Petrodvorets, a summer residence of the imperial family. After lunch, explore the famous Hermitage Museum, which houses one of the world's most extensive art collections. Attend an evening cultural performance.
(B,L,D)

July 11 St. Petersburg
Visit Tsarskoye Selo and its architectural wonder, the Catherine Palace, completed in the baroque style by Rastrelli in 1756. Restoration of the damage incurred during World War II continues. Savor excellent regional dishes during lunch in the delightful Podvorye Restaurant. Return to the city for a canal cruise before enjoying a festive farewell dinner.
(B,L,D)

July 12 St. Petersburg/New York
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
(B)

The M.S. Viking Kirov belongs to the deluxe fleet of Viking River Cruises, considered one of the world’s leading river-cruise lines. The Viking Kirov stands out as the finest ship cruising Russia’s waterways, offering comfort and style. The 200-passenger ship features two restaurants, a library, two bars, and a full-length sundeck for watching passing river scenes. All cabins are outside and feature a full picture window, two lower beds, heating, air-conditioning, and private facilities.

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