The ancient Russian town of Sergiyev Posad is a must-see destination on the Golden Ring of historic towns surrounding Moscow. This town was founded and grew up around the monastery, which is now a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from all over the world.
The UNESCO-rated Trinity Lavra of St.Sergius was founded in the 14th century by St. Sergius of Radonezh, one of the most venerated Russian saints, and now holds his relics. It was here that Russia's most revered icon painter, Andrei Rublyov, created his renowned icon The Trinity. The original is currently held in the Tretyakov Art Gallery in Moscow. Today, Sergiyev Posad is populated by a mix of pilgrims, monks and tourists.
Sergiyev Posad is also famed for its rich tradition in the carving of wooden toys and crafts, including Russian nesting dolls, or matryoshkas.
