Red is a prominent color in Russian culture and history. The Russian word for red, krasni, was, in the past, also used to describe something beautiful. Today, krasni is used to indicate something that is red in color, while krasivi is the modern Russian word for “beautiful.” However, many important sites and cultural artifacts still reflect the combined usage of the word, and a name that incorporates this root may still be considered something elevated in status. In fact, the Russian word for excellent - prekrasni - shares the root kras with these other words.
Red Square
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Red Corner
CC BY carulmare
Red as Symbol of Communism
CC BY-NC-SA philster02188
Red Easter Eggs
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Red eggs, a Russian Easter tradition, symbolize Christ's resurrection, but red eggs were present even in pagan times. The only ingredient necessary for red Easter egg dye are onion skins. When boiled, they produce the red dye used to color eggs red.
Red in Russian Folk Costumes
CC by Maarten (Superchango)
Russian Place Names
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Many place names in Russia contain the root word for “red” or “beautiful.” Krasnoyarsk (red slope) and Krasnodar (beautiful gift), and Krasnaya Polyana (red valley) are examples.
