Mike and Nadia Barnhill
in the BURYATIA Region of Siberia
mike@bigfurhat.com
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Mike and Nadia Barnhill |
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Buryatia Buryatia — is an autonomous republic within the area of Siberia in Russia. Its diverse population of one million is notable for its traditions derived from the Buryats-an ancient nomadic Asian race strongly connected in culture with the peoples of neighbouring Mongolia. There are also several other people groups including Evenks, one of the indigenous peoples of the region. The traditions of Buddhism have been revived since freedom of worship was restored with the end of Soviet rule. Buriatia is the site of the most important centre of Buddhism in Russia, the colourful Ivolginsky Datsan, located 30 km from Buryatia's capital Ulan-Ude. Settlements of 'Old Believers' may also be found in the Kuytun valley some 50 km from Ulan Ude. They separated from the Russian Orthodox church in the 18th century and have since preserved their rural way of life through years of repression and, like the Amish in the USA, are proud to continue in a traditional way of life.
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