Ganina Yama

This monastery and memorial complex in the forest north of Yekaterinburg marks the abandoned mine pit where the remains of the executed Romanov imperial family were first disposed of in 1918. A cluster of seven wooden churches, one for each family member, was built here in the early 2000s. Set among pine woodland, the complex is a major pilgrimage destination, especially during July commemorations when processions travel from the Church on the Blood. Wooden chapels and quiet paths give the place a contemplative atmosphere.