Inland Visions

To infinity and beyond: stargazing in the Caucasus mountains

For thousands of years humans have looked to the stars searching for answers. In Russia’s Nizhny Arkhyz, scientists continue that tradition, getting information from galaxies far, far away — and this data may help humanity survive in the future. Inland Visions heads to the Special Astrophysical Observatory in the Caucasus mountains for a tour of several unique telescopes.

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Sturgeon surge: Inside Russia’s fish & caviar business

Inland Visions heads to the southern region of Astrakhan, where the immense Volga River flows into the Caspian Sea. Too salty to be a lake and not salty enough to be a sea, the Caspian forms a unique ecosystem where fish thrive. 

We look into sturgeon farming and caviar production, learn about the health benefits of fish and how scales and bones are turned into valuable byproducts.

Royal luxury: Faberge & imperial porcelain - The Russian Empire’s discreet charm

St. Petersburg was once the resplendent capital of the Russian Empire. And it was there that the ruling Romanov family established a tradition of high-end luxury, such as Faberge jewelry and Imperial Porcelain.

Take a closer look at the biggest private collection of Royal Easter Eggs at the Faberge Museum, while secrets are revealed at the legendary Imperial Porcelain Manufactory.

Back to Russia’s roots! A crafty look at the revival of folk traditions

In the modern, pragmatic world of smartphones and tech upgrades, it seems like there’s little room for artisanal crafts and traditions. But just outside of the bustling megapolis of Moscow, you’ll find that the folk arts culture is still going strong.

Follow Inland Visions to Kolomna, where locals have brought back to life a delicious treat called apple pastila. Then head to the town of Gzhel’, known for its white and blue porcelain, and meet the artists who are going back centuries to revive painting techniques and iconic trays in Zhostovo.

Right on time! The unique aesthetics & Know-how of Russian watches

The tradition of watchmaking in Russia dates back to the 18th century, when Emperor Peter the Great established the Imperial Peterhof Factory. The USSR was once the second-most prolific producer after Switzerland, bringing unique know-how to timekeeping.

On this episode, we clock in at the Raketa watchmaking factory to see the largest private collection of Soviet watches in the world and meet a true master in his field – inventor Konstantin Chaykin. Join Inland Visions to find out what makes Russia tick!

Underground wonder: The Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro is unlike any other transportation system in the world. Most of the subway stations resemble underground palaces with 48 of them labeled as cultural heritage sites – all while acting as the fastest way of getting around the city. Join Inland Visions as we explore the elaborate designs, precious materials, and artwork of the Moscow Metro. We learn all about the secrets that it hides with historian Alexander Popov and subway train driver Vladimir Konnov.