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Ganina Yama Monastery Day Trip from Yekaterinburg

Get ready for a fascinating day trip to Ganina Yama Monastery, a treasure trove of Russian Orthodox history and culture. Our guided tour will take you through the monastery's rich past, its significance in Russian history, and the stories behind its iconic landmarks. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of this incredible piece of Russia's heritage.

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A Haunting Visit to the Site Where the Romanov Family's Remains Were Laid to Rest

Name: A Haunting Visit to the Site Where the Romanov Family's Remains Were Laid to Rest
Item: Ganina Yama Monastery Day Trip from Yekaterinburg
Rating: 5
Author: tomWalker7

summarizeEditor's Summary

This site is a haunting reminder of the tragic events that unfolded in Yekaterinburg. The Male Monastery of the Imperial Passion-Bearers, located in the Sverdlovsk Region, is a place of somber reflection and historical significance. I visited the monastery to learn more about the Romanov family's last days and was struck by the eerie atmosphere. The monastery's free admission policy makes it an accessible destination for those interested in history and the paranormal. While the site is a must-visit for fans of the Romanov family, be prepared for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Russia's tumultuous past.

settingsSpecifications

Kararİyi

Düzen7/10

Hafıza8/10

Müzisyenlik9/10

Hello,

I've already shared my visit to the Church on Blood in Yekaterinburg, but now I'd like to continue the story about the last days of the Romanov family. Their ordeal didn't end with the execution. After the shooting, their bodies were still transported around Yekaterinburg for a long time. I'll tell you more about that and the place called Ganina Yama in this review.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Male Monastery of the Imperial Passion-Bearers

Sverdlovsk Region, p. Shuvakish, Urochishche Ganina Yama

free admission

A BIT ABOUT THE LAST DAYS OF THE ROMANOV FAMILY

Many people know that the Romanov family met their martyrdom in the house of engineer Ipatiev, roughly in the place where the Church on Blood is now. But if their suffering had ended there.

No, after death, their bodies were loaded into a truck. They were thrown into a pit near Yekaterinburg, but fearing that the crime would be discovered (here I'm not quite sure, the crime would have been discovered anyway), the killers returned, took the bodies, and drove them to abandoned mines. I'm not entirely sure why exactly Ganina Yama, maybe it belonged to some Ganya. So, there were several pits there. They were thrown into one, but the bodies weren't fully hidden from accidental eyes. They were pulled out again, and transferred to another pit.

Later, the bodies were reburied, and their remains went through all the necessary tests in later times, confirming that the found remains indeed belonged to the Romanov family. However, the Russian Orthodox Church doesn't recognize this version, despite all the DNA tests. There was also another version that the remains were burned, and the Russian Orthodox Church adheres to this opinion. There were some indirect evidence for that.

Anyway, it was Ganina Yama that temporarily became the resting place for the remains of 11 people, including members of the Romanov family and people close to them.

A Somber Atmosphere

Walking through the monastery, I couldn't shake off the feeling of heaviness in the air, not unlike the atmosphere in the Cathedral of Blood. Despite being surrounded by a dense pine forest, there's no sense of ease or spiritual uplift. Every corner of the monastery is a reminder of the tragic fate of the Romanovs, making it a challenging but fascinating experience.

When you enter, women are required to cover their heads and legs as the monastery is still an active place of worship. If you don't have anything to cover up with, there are scarves and skirts provided at the entrance.

The monastery grounds feature numerous small churches, some made of wood, others of stone. The beautiful buildings stand alongside equally stunning trees, creating a sense of verticality that draws your gaze upwards.

Despite the large number of visitors, the atmosphere remains eerily quiet, peaceful, and melancholic. There are numerous monuments dedicated to the Romanovs, but what struck me most was the monument to the young princesses and the heir, Tsarevich.

It was late October, and the rain was pouring down. Look at their faces – they seem to be crying. And in the photo below, the water is frozen, like a tear that's about to fall when you're trying to hold it back. My eyes are full – just one more second, and they'll overflow. I'm a sensitive person, and I couldn't help but notice, especially the face of the Tsarevich. Sometimes, it even seems like it's not water, but blood flowing down his face. The mystique...

We took a peek inside one of the churches (or chapels), and I even lit a candle.

The most haunting part is the pit where the victims were literally dropped.

There are about 3 pits, but it's hard to tell which one was used - it's all just too disturbing. Pit #7: The pit is surrounded by a small bridge, and as you walk across it, you see portraits of the 11 people who met such a tragic end. It's a really somber and thought-provoking experience.

It's a tough place to be, and it's hard to shake off the heavy thoughts.

The refectory is a nice touch, and we had a great meal there during our visit. The food is homemade, and I really enjoyed the vegetarian pastries - I've never had anything like them before, and I ended up buying a few more to take with me.

These guys are the ones who greet you at the pilgrimage center:

There are also some shops and souvenir stands on the premises, as well as a bathroom near the parking lot.

I have to say that this is a place that you really need to visit, but it's not for the faint of heart. I was here before, when I was probably around 16, and it didn't really affect me back then. But now, seeing everything with different eyes, it's a totally different experience - my heart aches, but at the same time, it's a sense of peace that settles in.

I'd love to come back and explore the site on my own, take my time to absorb the somber atmosphere and reflect on the tragic events that took place there.

I'd give it 5 stars.

Thanks for reading!

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What is the significance of the Male Monastery of the Imperial Passion-Bearers?

The monastery is a place of somber reflection and historical significance, commemorating the execution of the Romanov family in 1918. It's a must-visit destination for fans of the Romanov family and those interested in Russian history.

Is the site free to visit?

Yes, the monastery offers free admission, making it an accessible destination for history buffs and curious travelers.

What is the best time to visit the site?

The best time to visit the site is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the surrounding landscape is at its most beautiful.

Are there any guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available in Russian and English, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.

Can I take photos at the site?

Yes, photography is allowed, but please be respectful of the site's atmosphere and other visitors.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the site is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available for visitors with mobility impairments.

Are there any amenities or services available at the site?

Limited amenities and services are available, including a small café and restrooms. It's recommended to bring snacks and water, as options may be limited.

Can I purchase souvenirs at the site?

Yes, souvenirs are available for purchase, including books, postcards, and other items related to the Romanov family's history.

What are the opening hours of the site?

The site is open from 10am to 6pm, with extended hours during the summer months.

check_circlePros

•The sheer amount of information available about the Romanov family's history and the events leading up to their execution is impressive.
•The site's atmosphere is undeniably eerie, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the paranormal.
•The monastery's free admission policy is a definite plus, making it an accessible destination for history buffs and curious travelers.
•The surrounding landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, with the Ural Mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
•The site's significance extends beyond the Romanov family, offering a glimpse into the tumultuous history of Russia.
•The monastery's architecture is a unique blend of Russian Orthodox and Soviet styles, making it a visually striking destination.
•The site is well-maintained, with clear signs and markers to guide visitors through the complex history and significance of the location.
•The staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer questions, making the experience even more engaging and informative.

cancelCons

•Be prepared for a somber and emotionally charged experience, as the site's history can be overwhelming.
•The site's remote location may make it difficult to access for those without a car or transportation.
•Some areas of the site may be closed due to maintenance or restoration work.
•The site's atmosphere can be intense, so it's not recommended for young children or those sensitive to the paranormal.
•The site's historical significance may not be immediately apparent to visitors without prior knowledge of the Romanov family's history.
•The site's infrastructure is basic, with limited amenities and services available.