Dymkovo or Vyatka figurine tradition dates back to the 15th century. The toy was originally made of clay, and often could be made by children themselves. Both children and parents enjoyed the creation process as well as the finished items. The toys were often designed as whistles and used for this purpose on the pagan spring festival.
Matryoshka doll (nested doll) is one of the main symbols of Russia. The wooden doll contains several dolls of different size, hidden one into another fascinating people both by its simplicity and mysteriousness. Despite common misconception, the toy is a relatively new "invention" and gained prominence only in late 19th century. The first doll was hand painted by the artist Sergey Malutin from Sergiev Posad and later presented to the world by the famous patron of the arts - Savva Mamontov. Today Sergiev Posad remains the oldest still functioning manufacturing center of Matryoshka dolls. To visit the birthplace of the traditional toy and admire the architectural ensemble of the Trinity Lavra
check out our tour to the city!
Another mysterious character – Cheburashka - keeps winning the hearts of both Russian and foreign folks since the famous tale and cartoon appeared in the Soviet Russia. The story is about the friendship of Gena the crocodile and Cheburashka, the charming animal with big eyes and round ears, who is often confused with a hare or a bear. Cheburashka gained world prominence when he became the official symbol of the Russian Olympic Team.