Nizhni-Novgorod
This is where Russia became an empire (in substance) before my eyes.
I slunk through the labyrinthine streets and lurked in the shadows of market stalls.
I found a Book of Gospels dating to 1408 in the treasury of the Cathedral of the Transfiguration.
I bought raisins and pistachios, dried peaches and wine.
I wondered the terraced gardens overlooking the Volga.
I stood reverently in front of wonder-working icons.
My day bore a tinge of adventure.
It was satisfying.
Distance from Tver: 827 versts
