It seems the prime sightseeing attractions in Yalta are Russian Orthodox churches and the villas of the pre-revolutionary rich and famous. We wandered aimlessly and found two different outdoor markets and two fancy churches.
People bring anything and everything to the markets to sell. Many display their wares on blankets on the sidewalk, many in booths lining narrow alleyways. I couldn't figure out how to photograph the booths because they line paths which are so constricted that two people have to squeeze to pass each other, and they twist and turn.
The older church, made of massive blocks of stone, had an austere exterior. The inside, in contrast, was brightly lit and aglow with color. We found it up on a hill and definitely off the beaten path, so it was completely deserted. Doug even climbed the tiny stone steps up to the steeple, at least until he ran into construction materials and couldn't go any further.
The newer church was all bright and shiny outside, but dark and most serious inside. There were lots of beggars at the gate, and the interior saw the comings and goings of many old men and women who were busy lighting candles around each of the icons.
The beaches were packed - no surprise since this is primarily a resort destination. What was different was that when we arrived at 7:30 in the morning, the beaches were already full. I'm assuming there isn't much nightlife here.
Doug wants to go see Carmen at the Opera house tomorrow night. I'm not sure how much fun it would be since I don't speak any Ukrainian or Russian. ;-)
Winter island style
2 years ago
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