📍For centuries, Russia was predominantly a land of peasants and villages. At the beginning of the 20th century, around 85% of its population lived in rural areas. 🏠 At the heart of village life stood the izba (изба) — a traditional wooden log house, often decorated with beautifully carved window frames and heated by a large Russian stove. 🇷🇺Today, Russia is a highly urbanised country, but the charm and spirit of its traditional villages can still be experienced. 📍 One such place is Sviyazhsk, a picturesque island-town near Kazan, founded in 1551. 📸Instagram ❗️Facebook