Revolution Tour

Today we were scheduled to go on a Russian Revolution tour with Mike, the tour guide. I was personally excited about this because the Russian Revolution is such an important part the Russian history. Aside from this, it was a beautiful day to partake in such a lengthy walking tour throughout the city of St. Petersburg.

One of our first stops was Smolny Cathedral. I was real taken back by how beautful the cathedral actually was. It reminded me of what i imagined buildings to look like when i pictured Russian architecture in my mind before actually visiting. With the big blue domes and the gold cross tops, it was an impressive sight to see while on the tour.

We later boarded the metro. 13 days into the trip, and im still impressed with how steep the escalator system really is. It amazes me how long we are going down into the ground until we actaully reach the ground level to board the metro. It's also facinating how the hundreds of people you pass while descending into the tunnel look at you and at the the same time you look back in a sort of habit.

When we arrived at our destination Mike enlightened us how there was an act of terrorism this past April Fools Day. Someone actually planted a bomb under one of the more famous statues of Lenin and while exploding it, managed to blow off part of Lenins butt. Therefore, we were not actually able to see this statue, it was in a big wooden box and is presently under restoration.

Mike also showed us the train car that Lenin first arrived in. I thought this was neat because of Lenins remarkable impact on Russian history. This train car is what first introduced him into Russia.

Mike then showed us the actual balcony where Lenin use to give speeches. This balcony is where Lenin's voice was heard, and one of the many important places that had to do with the Russian Revolution. Our last stop was outside Peter and Paul Fortress where we sat on the cobblestone walkway while Mike concluded the tour on the Russian Revolution. It was such a nice day and the group was ready for a much needed rest. It was nice to relax on the side of the river and take in the beautiful scenery of the city of St. Petersburg.

The remainder of the day was for exploration and souvenier shopping. Many students went to the Chutch of Spilled Blood market where we actually have the opportunity to barter with the locals. This was quite an experience. Thats about it for today. Its getting warmer here in Russia, shortly we will all be wearing shorts and T-shirts in St. Petersburg.

-Dylan Kilbourne '11