Iversky Monastery. Valdaiskoe Lake In Novgorod Oblast. Russia. Royalty-Free Stock Photography

Iversky Monastery, founded by Patriarch Nikon in 1653, attracts the pilgrims from all over the world even to this day. An important relic is kept here – the wondrous icon Iberian Mother of God. A visit to the monastery will not only let you become acquainted with the unique historical center of Russian culture, but also feel the life-creating power of Orthodoxy. Valday – a wonderful land of rivers, lakes and forests. Its bells have been the most prominent landmark of the town ever since the ancient times. For many centuries, they served as a clock for the citizens, telling them the time for communal prayer, labor or rest, grief or happiness. Valday Bell Museum houses the biggest exposition of bells and hand bells from all over the world.