Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoye was the country estate of the Russian Tsars in the 16th - 17th centuries. Today this impressive historical architectural complex is within Moscow's city limits. The Museum-reserve of Kolomenskoye unites diverse monuments of Russian ecclesiastical and wooden architecture. Kolomenskoye's main attraction is the 16th century church of the Ascension, chosen by UNESCO for rts World Heritage list.

Magic stones

There is a deep Golosov ravine in Kolomenskoye reserve. Magical qualities were attributed to this place in the times when Finno-Ugric people lived nearby more than 1,500 years ago. Two large stones lie at the bottom of the ravine, probably bought there by a glacier.

The ancient Devichy stone has long been popular with women. They come here looking for a cure for sterility and women's illnesses. Sometimes women sit on its rough surface for hours.

The goose-stone, also known as Head of a horse, attracts men looking to improve their health and gain strength. The bushes around the giant stones are covered in coloured ribbons. According to ancient beliefs, a ribbon tied at a ritual place confirms the wish.