Lake Svetloyar
Lake Svetloyar is one of the most magnificent lakes in Russia, which is richly endowed with various legendary stories and myths. It belongs to the Nizhny Novgorod region and is the largest and deepest body of water in this region. Its area is about 12 hectares, and at the deepest point, there are 40 meters. Svetloyar Lake belongs to the territory of the Voskresenskoye Povetluzhye National Reserve.
As for the origin of Svetloyar, scientists even today cannot put forward a single opinion. The uniqueness of the lake lies in the fact that the waters that fill it always remain clean and transparent, and also do not overgrow with algae. If you pour water from this reservoir into a vessel, it can be stored there for several years without losing its transparency and taste. The lake is always cold, as it is fed by underwater and bottom springs.
Near the lake, on the territory of the reserve, an old wooden church has found its place, which was built in honor of the Kazan Mother of God. Here you can also find a spring and an ancient grave belonging to three saints. People who believe in the magical properties of the grave often take its soil with them, thanks to which they are cured of all sorts of misfortunes.
Every year on July 6, an established celebration called "Ivan Kupala" takes place on the shores of Lake Svetloyar. A solemn ceremony of worship is held here, which is accompanied by a procession around the reservoir. It is on this day that many pilgrims from all over the country come here. The celebration continues with the so-called City of Craftsmen, which unites all talented artisans. During this time, the opportunity is provided to participate in various master classes. On the adjacent territory of Lake Svetloyar there is the Kitezh Museum, which on this day holds the Kitezh City - the Soul of Russia festival. On the fabulous night of July 6-7, candles light up around the lake, and the celebration of Ivan Kupala itself begins. There is a belief here that if you make three circles around the perimeter of the lake with a burning candle, then your wish will definitely come true. Previously, this holiday was accompanied by lighting bonfires and jumping over them.
You can get to Lake Svetloyar as part of an excursion group, which is constantly organized in the summer from Nizhny Novgorod. The trip will be especially exciting if it coincides with the celebration of Ivan Kupala.
There is a legend that Kitezh city is hidden in the waters of Svetloyar. During the Mongol takeover of Russia, Batu Khan heard about the city of Kitezh and decided to capture it. When the Mongols approached the city, they saw no defensive fortifications, but only people praying. Sensing an easy prey, they attacked the city, but suddenly water came out of the ground, flooding many of the invaders and the city. The church was the last to go under water, and soon only a water surface remained on the site of Kitezh castle. Old-timers claim that singing and ringing of bells can sometimes be heard near Lake Svetloyar, and only those who are pure in heart and soul can see the city. The lake is sometimes called "Russian Atlantis".
