A view of the Russian Orthodox Solovetsky Monastery founded in 1436 by two monks on Bolshoy Island, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Onega Bay, Arkhangel Oblast, Russia, Arctic, Europe

solovetsky monastery bolshoy island russia arctic onega bay arkhangel oblast history architecture orthodox monks heritage tourism landmark clouds nature travel spirituality religious site northern russia cultural monument byzantine style bell tower dome sacred pilgrimage coastal serene landscape reflection historical significance russian history orthodox christianity heritage preservation ancient site tranquility exploration monastery grounds islands tradition cultural heritage prayer sea view stone structure wooden roofs historical architecture religious architecture sky blue sky seasonal change weather patterns