Inland Visions
What do you really know about Russia? ‘Inland Visions’ follows host Sean Thomas across the country to shed stereotypes and meet those breaking down barriers. Discover the innovations changing Russia, the human passion & emotions, and a futuristic vision for the world's largest country. Prepare to be given a new perspective on what Russians are all about.
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.
Out of this world: Meet the superheroes of our time
Space has always captured humanity’s imagination, but only the chosen few are able to head beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. It takes years of preparation to finally take on the final frontier. Every cosmonaut’s path starts in Zvyozdniy Gorodok or Star city, not far from Moscow. Learning to operate a spacecraft, breathing under g-forces, moving in zero gravity, working in outer space and even coping with long-term isolation – all this is taught in Zvyozdniy with the help of flying labs, centrifuges, hydrolabs and a lot more. Space training pushes the limits of human abilities to the very edge. So, who are the superheroes of our time? Join Inland Visions to meet past and future cosmonauts and get to know a little more about one of the most important jobs in the world.
Food! North Ossetia’s fourth religion
Ossetian cuisine is legendary. Recipes are passed down unchanged from generation to generation, and should absolutely be on the menu for UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage List. Food is practically a fourth religion in North Ossetia. We uncover some family secrets of cheesemaking, learn the philosophy behind Ossetian pie and take part in the ritual performance of the traditional Ossetian feast. Get a taste of North Ossetia-Alania with Inland Visions!