The Solovetsky Islands are an archipelago located in the Onega Bay of the Russia's White Sea. A seemingly inhospitable and sparsely populated land, it serves as a home to the Solovetsky Monastery complex, one of Russia's most prominent religious centers which in Soviet times served as a prison.
The monastery was founded in 1436 by the monk Zosima.
Memorial cross in the Prosperity Bay of the Bolshoy (Big) Solovetsky Island.
The monastery has served as a place of exile for opponents of Russia's secular and religious authorities since 16th century.
Pilgrim taking photos of the Solovki Monastery environs.
Sunset over the Bolshoy(Big)Solovetsky Island.
During the Soviet period, many of the monastery buildings became incorporated into the Solovki prison camp.
Golgotha Crucifixion Hermitage,located on Anzer Island in the Arkhangelsk region.
The Constantine Chapel on Solovetsky Island, Arkhangelsk Region.
The Transfiguration of the Savior Monastery on Solovetsky Island, Arkhangelsk Region.
The monastery was one of the first Russian sites to become part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The boat Saint Peter on Solovetsky Island, Arkhangelsk Region.
View of the Bolshoy(Big)Solovetsky Island and the Blagopoluchiya Harbor (the Harbor of Well-Being)from the Solovetsky Transfiguration Monastery.
The Spaso-Preobrazhensky(Transfiguration of the Savior) Monastery, located on the Solovki islands in the White Sea.
