Valaam is a large island in the Ladoga Lake, a unique nature reserve. Surrounding it is a chain of more than 50 islands covering an area of over thirty-six square kilometers and known as the Islands of Valaam. Formed more that two billion years ago, the history of these islands dates back to ancient times.

On Valaam, granite blocks descend gently into the waters of the lake and angry cliffs are pacified by carpets of grass and flowers. The Cathedral of Transfiguration of the Saviour with its impressive bell tower dominates the whole archipelago. The cathedral is surrounded by the eighteenth and nineteenth century buildings which merge with the striking landscape, the culmination of centuries of work by architects, craftsmen, peasants and nature.