Russian Culture 101 in Photos

Russian Orthodox Cross

The Russian Orthodox cross differs from the Western cross. The top bar represents the plaque that was hung over Christ's head. The middle bar, as in Western Christianity, is the cross beam on which Christ's wrists or palms were nailed. The slanted bottom bar is the footrest - and Christ's feet are represented as being nailed individually rather than together. At the bottom of this particular cross, you can see "Adam's skull." Other emblems appear on more elaborate Russian Orthodox crosses.

Russian Orthodox Christianity is still practiced in Russia, though religious practice was rare during Soviet times and atheism became popular. After the fall of Communism, Russian churches and cathedrals were reopened and Russia has seen a renewed interest in Othodoxy.