 Graffiti series, located on the concrete retaining wall separating the beach from the promenade along the Gulf of Finland (near the Sestroretsk Resort or "Kurort" area) which is a fanciful and nostalgic mural composition featuring whimsical animals and nature motifs. It is a more abstract section, featuring dynamic bursts of color (yellow, orange, and white) that resemble explosions, splashes, or perhaps stylized sunbeams breaking through clouds. These bright, energetic forms add a sense of movement to the otherwise static scenes. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Graffiti series, located on the concrete retaining wall separating the beach from the promenade along the Gulf of Finland (near the Sestroretsk Resort or "Kurort" area) which is a fanciful and nostalgic mural composition featuring whimsical animals and nature motifs. This segment shows a yellow-orange cat perched comfortably on a tree branch. The surrounding trees are depicted with vertical, textured strokes, suggesting a dense birch or pine forest typical of the Karelian Isthmus. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Graffiti series, located on the concrete retaining wall separating the beach from the promenade along the Gulf of Finland (near the Sestroretsk Resort or "Kurort" area) which is a fanciful and nostalgic mural composition featuring whimsical animals and nature motifs. A distinct horizontal band runs across part of the mural, depicting a long, grey commuter train (possibly an elektrichka) traveling through a green landscape. This element likely references the vital railway connection between St. Petersburg and the resort towns of the Kurortny District, a familiar sight for locals and visitors. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Serene autumn scene at Laskovy Beach (Russian: Laskovyy Plyazh) in the settlement of Solnechnoe, located on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Saint Petersburg. Laskovy Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Kurortny District of Saint Petersburg. The name "Laskovy" translates to "Affectionate" or "Tender," while the settlement name, Solnechnoe, means "Sunny". This area has a rich history as a summer resort destination; formerly known as the Finnish village of Ollila, it became a hub for St. Petersburg s intelligentsia and dacha owners in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The image shows a trio of birch trees with vibrant yellow and orange leaves, which is characteristic of the "Golden Autumn" season in the Leningrad Region during early-to-mid October. The golden leaves contrast strikingly with the blue sky and the dark blue waters of the Gulf. The large white concrete sphere on the sand is a landscaping feature. Russia, October 9, 2025  Rebuilding of the Forest Building (Russian: Lesnoy Korpus) in a major reconstruction project at the historic Sestroretsk Resort (Sestroretsky Kurort). The original Sestroretsk Resort was a famous health spa complex founded in 1898 by engineer Peter Avenarius. It featured several grand wooden structures, including a massive Kursaal (concert hall), a mud bath facility, and the Forest Building. The resort was a hub for St. Petersburg s elite and intelligentsia in the early 20th century. The original Forest Building was a beautiful wooden hotel and sanatorium building constructed in the early 1900s. It was a key part of the ensemble but was destroyed during World War II. The new structure faithfully replicates the "Northern Art Nouveau" style of the original resort architecture, characterized by its complex roofline, spires, towers, and wooden detailing that harmonizes with the surrounding pine forest and dunes. The exterior appears nearly complete, showing the elaborate wooden facade, the large central dome, and the corner towers with their needle-like spires. The scaffolding indicates that finishing work is still in progress. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Graffiti on a beach wall near Kurort, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, July 8, 2016  Orange graffiti on a beach wall near Kurort, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, July 8, 2016  Geometrical patterns on graffiti on a beach wall near Kurort, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, July 8, 2016  Expansive view looking north-northwest from the southern end of the Sestroretsk coastline towards the Sestroretsk Resort (Kurort) and, further in the distance, the settlement of Solnechnoe (Sunny). The coastline curves gently inward. This specific geography near Sestroretsk causes the eastward littoral drift (sand movement) to weaken, resulting in a very wide, accretional beach (up to 140 meters wide) known for its fine sand and extensive dunes. The foreground shows a sandy spit or sandbar created by the outflow of water. The shallow water here creates the wide, calm pools seen in the foreground, which are popular with birds. Sestroretsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Ruins of the former "Okhotnichy Domik" (Hunting Lodge) restaurant, built in 1958 in the Stalinist Neoclassical style. The structure, located near Prospekt Engelsa, features a distinctive rotunda with columns and a now-exposed skeletal dome, having fallen into disrepair after a fire in 2010. The ruins are now heavily vandalized with graffiti and overgrown with vegetation, standing as a decaying relic of Soviet-era recreational architecture within the park. Udelnyi Park, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Russian Switzerland in Oranienbaum Park. The landscape features rolling, grassy mounds covered in a scattering of fallen yellow leaves, creating a soft, textured carpet that emphasizes the undulating topography of this "Swiss" inspired area. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  This picturesque courtyard is located at Ru"u"tli 28, tucked away near the medieval city wall and the fortifications of Toompea. The site features a charming, small white building with red doors and window frames, nestled directly against the limestone cliff and city wall fortifications. The lush ivy covering the stone walls turns a vibrant red in autumn, creating a "fairytale" aesthetic that contrasts with the defensive nature of the surrounding structures. The wooden walkway visible above the cliff is part of the Kiek in de Ko"k Fortifications Museum complex. This gallery connects the Maiden Tower (Neitsitorn), the Stable Tower (Marstall), and the Kiek in de Ko"k artillery tower, allowing visitors to walk along the old defensive perimeter. The courtyard below sits in the shadow of these massive fortifications, which once protected the city from invaders. Estonia, October 16, 2025  Stone bridge in Oranienbaum Park in the "Russian Switzerland" section of the Upper Park. The bridge is built from rough, unpolished granite boulders, giving it a deliberately archaic, "ruin-like" appearance that blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, typical of the romantic style popular in the 19th century. It spans a bend in the Karasta River, connecting a gravel path that winds through rolling green hills, which were artificially shaped to mimic an alpine valley. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Gulf of Finland coastline, with a zone of Common Reed (Phragmites australis) in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  Toothed cup fungus (Tarzetta cupularis) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Some smooth white corticioid fungus on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Hydnoid mushroom Dentipellis fragilis on a rotting oak in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Some smooth white crust fungus on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Wood hedgehog mushrooms (Hydnum repandum) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Old Town at the foot of Toompea Hill, specifically near Nunne Street 5. The illuminated stone staircase on the left is the start of the Patkuli Stairs. Built in 1903, these 157 steps connect the Lower Town (from Nunne Street) to the Patkuli viewing platform on the upper limestone plateau of Toompea. The striking street art on the wall to the right is titled "Okay, Queen...". Created by the artist Marie Soosaar in 2022, this stencil graffiti depicts a queen-like figure holding a lamb, flanked by a knight and a castle tower. It adds a modern, whimsical touch to the medieval surroundings and has quickly become a popular photo spot. The massive limestone wall in the background supports the Toompea hill. The buildings visible at the top (with the pink facade) are part of the complex of government and noble residences that historically occupied the Upper Town. The large trees on the left are part of the green belt (Snelli Park area) that surrounds the Old Town fortifications, providing a lush contrast to the stone architecture. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Revealing the multinational and irregular composition of the Russian forces, featuring the flag of Uzbekistan prominently displayed alongside the black "Assault Troops" banner and the Russian tricolor. In the foreground, the grave of Aleksandr Borisovich Vasiliev (1973-2025), a 52-year-old soldier, is marked by a framed photograph of him in combat gear standing in a field, humanizing the older demographic of recent casualties. The scene captures the raw, crowded nature of the "initial stage" of burial, with fresh earthen mounds and a chaotic mix of personal and military symbols extending into the background. "Alley of Heroes" at Cemetery of the Victims of January 9, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Corticioid fungus Hyphodontia barba-jovis(?) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Some smooth grey-white corticioid mushroom on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Anise mazegill mushroom (Gloeophyllum odoratum) on a stump in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Lemon disco fungus (Bisporella citrina) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Underside of anise mazegill mushroom (Gloeophyllum odoratum) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Close-up of hydnoid mushroom Dentipellis fragilis on a rotting oak in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Common mazegill mushrooms (Cerioporus mollis) on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Hydnoid mushroom Dentipellis fragilis on a lower side of an old fallen oak in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Texture of corticioid fungus Hyphodontia barba-jovis(?) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Corticioid mushroom Phlebia centrifuga on a thick fallen spruce in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Gulf of Finland and a beach in Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  Resinous polypore mushrooms (Ischnoderma resinosum) on a fallen deciduous tree in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Young yellowleg bonnet mushrooms (Mycena epipterygia) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Immature yellowleg bonnet mushrooms (Mycena epipterygia) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Crust fungus Phlebia centrifuga on a thick fallen spruce without bark in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Leuchtenberg Palace, designed by architect Andrei Stackenschneider and completed in 1842. The facade reflects the Late Classicism style (resembling a Roman villa), characterized by a grand portico with Corinthian columns, symmetrical window arrangements, and a pediment that gives the structure a noble, temple-like appearance. The palace s yellow stucco walls show signs of weathering and peeling paint, contributing to the estate s romantic, slightly melancholic atmosphere of a "forgotten" royal residence. The palace is situated on a terrace overlooking the Gulf of Finland, with its color palette harmonizing with the surrounding golden autumn foliage, reinforcing the seamless blend of architecture and nature intended by its designers. Sergievka Park, Old Peterhof, west from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 13, 2025  Golden-yellow mushrooms tubercle scalycap (Pholiota tuberculosa) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Underside of resinous polypore mushrooms (Ischnoderma resinosum) on a fallen deciduous tree in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Close-up of corticioid fungus Phlebia centrifuga on a thick fallen spruce without bark in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Corticioid fungus Hyphodontia barba-jovis(?) with fringed tips of the teeth on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Tiny immature :0438rick tuft mushrooms (Hypholoma lateritium) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Orange-yellow cap of tubercle scalycap mushrooms (Pholiota tuberculosa) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Slender coral mushrooms (Ramariopsis subtilis) in a semi-dry state in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Stony beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 15, 2017  Presence of a dead gull on a beach in the Gulf of Finland near Solnechnoe, that is most likely linked to the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak, specifically the H5N1 strain, which has devastated wild bird populations in the Baltic region throughout 2023-2025. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Creamy-white discs of fungus Hymenoscyphus monticola (Phaeohelotium monticola)(?) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Krestovy Bridge (Cross Bridge) located in Alexander Park in the town of Pushkin (formerly Tsarskoe Selo), near Saint Petersburg. It has Chinoiserie (Chinese-style) architecture, popular in the 18th century. A pavilion rests on four joined arches over the canal, creating a cross shape. It features glazed bricks (crimson, yellow, blue) and a curved "fish scale" roof. Built in 1779 by the Neyelovs for Catherine the Great, it is a key landmark of the park s "New Garden" area. Russia, October 10, 2025  Gills and curved yellow stems of tubercle scalycap mushrooms (Pholiota tuberculosa) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Dark-brown caps of resinous polypore mushrooms (Ischnoderma resinosum) on a fallen deciduous tree in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Stony beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 22, 2017  Boulders on a beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 22, 2017  Leaves of maples turning from green to orange between houses on Svetlanovsky Peospekt in cloudy weather. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 8, 2025  Granite stones on a beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 22, 2017  Ascomycete fungus Hymenoscyphus monticola (Phaeohelotium monticola) (or a very close cryptic sibling in that clade) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Hypomyces species (possibly Hypomyces rosellus or similar) parasitizing common mazegill mushrooms (Cerioporus mollis) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Reddish-brown crust fungus Hymenochaetopsis tabacina (syn. Pseudochaete tabacina, currently often treated as Hydnoporia tabacina) on a fallen oak(?) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  View towards Repino from the Laskovy Beach area in Solnechnoe highlighting a transition in the coastal landscape of the Gulf of Finland, marked by rugged natural textures and distinct geological features typical of the Karelian Isthmus shoreline. Unlike the wide, smooth sandy expanses of the main Laskovy Beach, the stretch towards Repino is characterized by a "stony belt" of glacial boulders and pebbles. The rocks visible in the shallow water and on the sand--primarily rapakivi granite and gneiss--are glacial erratics left behind by retreating ice sheets. Their reddish and grey hues (wet from the waves) contrast sharply with the rust-colored sand. Several hooded crows (Corvus cornix) are visible foraging along the shoreline. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Naturalistic style of the English landscape garden, which dominates the areas surrounding the formal canals, with rich textural contrast between the golden maples and dark evergreen firs, creating a painterly composition typical of 19th-century Russian park design. The untamed, wilder growth of the underbrush and tall grasses contrasts with the manicured lawns found elsewhere, evoking a sense of romantic melancholy suited to the "golden autumn" season. The dense, layered foliage creates an intimate, enclosed space that feels removed from the grand palace architecture, focusing entirely on the mood of the forest. Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  A weathered stone portal and wooden door at Sauna Street 2 (Sauna 2), in the heart of Tallinn s nightlife district. The arched doorway features a rustic, heavy limestone surround with a prominent keystone. This style is typical of the less ornate, utilitarian medieval architecture found in the Old Town s side streets. The panelled wooden door is heavily distressed, covered in layers of graffiti tags in various colors (silver, red, black). The tags cover nearly every inch, including the panels and the frame, obscuring the original wood finish. The heavy graffiti on this specific door is a hallmark of the area around Sauna Street and Va"ike-Karja, which transforms into a bustling party zone at night. While the historic architecture remains, the street level often bears the marks of the active nightlife scene, creating a gritty contrast between the medieval heritage and modern urban culture. This door is likely a side entrance or utility access for one of the nearby venues like Frank or Sigmund Freud Bar. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Northern end of Vene Street (Vene ta"nav) at the intersection with Olevima"gi and Bremeni ka"ik. The red brick building on the immediate left is located at Vene 28. It is a historic structure that was originally built in 1912 as a residential building and briefly housed the Estonian Provisional Government in 1918. It stands out with its industrial-style red brick facade contrasting with the medieval stone walls nearby. The large limestone wall with the archway on the far left is part of the city s defensive fortifications, specifically near the Bremen Tower (Bremeni torn). The archway leads into Bremen Passage (Bremeni ka"ik), a short, atmospheric walkway that connects Vene Street to Uus Street through the city wall. The tower itself, a 15th-century horseshoe-shaped defensive structure, is located just behind this wall. In the background, at the end of the street, you can see the yellow tower and facade of the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas (Nikolai kirik) at Vene 24. Designed by architect Luigi Rusca and built between 1820-1827, this Neoclassical church serves a congregation under the Moscow Patriarchate and is known for its valuable iconostasis. It sits on the site of a much older church that served Novgorod merchants in the Middle Ages. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Gulf of Finland coastline, with shallow waters and glacial boulders. Behind the rocky beach, there is a zone of Common Reed (Phragmites australis), which is ubiquitous along the Neva Bay coast. The trees include Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)--the tall conifer with orange bark on the right--and Black Alder or Birch, which are typical for these damp, sandy soils. The pines here are often twisted by the strong westerly winds. Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  Golden, slimy scalycap mushrooms Pholiota limonella in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Olgino. Saint Petersburg, Russia, September 26, 2025  "Alley of Heroes," a section of the cemetery dedicated to Russian soldiers killed in the war in Ukraine. In the foreground stands a permanent black granite monument featuring a detailed engraving of a soldier in combat gear with the "Z" insignia and a stoic epitaph reading, "Having given everything, I will not rise from the dust... I, having killed the fear within myself, fought". The background reveals rows of additional graves densely adorned with wreaths and flags representing various military branches (including the VDV and Naval Infantry) and private military contractors, illustrating the ongoing scale and diverse composition of the casualties. Cemetery of the Victims of January 9, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Section of spectacular rustgill mushrooms (Gymnopilus junonius) at the base of a large oak in Dubki Park. Sestroretsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Fall colors of green area between apartment houses near Svetlanovsky Prospect from a balcony on the third floor. The colors are predominantly earthy, muted golds, and olive tones, reflecting the transition of the foliage from late summer green to autumn dormancy. This palette creates a cozy, nostalgic mood, characteristic of a quiet residential courtyard in autumn. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  "Bulldozing" trails left by a freshwater mussel of the family Unionidae, most probably the Duck Mussel (Anodonta anatina) or the Painter s Mussel (Unio pictorum) on a beach near Kurort. The shell partially visible at the end of the trail is large, oval, and relatively smooth with a dark, brownish-yellow periostracum (outer skin). Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Narrow, cobblestone alley is Va"ike-Karja Street (Va"ike-Karja ta"nav) at the intersection with Sauna Street, a spot known for its vibrant nightlife. The black sign reading "FRANK" visible down the street on the right marks the entrance to FRANK Bistro & Cocktail Bar. This popular venue, located on the corner, is known for its New York-style interior and a hidden underground cocktail lounge ("Frank Underground"). The wall on the immediate right is heavily tagged with graffiti (visible tags include "FRANK" and other abstract designs), reflecting the street s gritty, urban character typical of the "Bermuda Triangle" nightlife district. The view looks down the narrow passage towards the intersection where Va"ike-Karja meets Sauna Street. The cobblestones are well-worn, and the narrowness of the street amplifies the intimate, medieval feel, despite the modern graffiti and bar signs. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  A vibrant and slightly gritty scene in a courtyard or passage off Viru Street (Viru 13), revealing a hidden side of Tallinn s Old Town nightlife. The wall is covered in colorful, chaotic graffiti tags (e.g., "PASR," "OPG," "SRN"), contrasting with the historic surroundings. The abstract blue and white forms at the bottom right resemble stylized waves or bubbles. This heavy tagging is typical of the semi-hidden courtyards in this area that house alternative bars and clubs. Through the window on the right, you can see the warm interior of a bar. Bottles of alcohol are lined up on shelves, and the lighting suggests a cozy, active atmosphere inside. This juxtaposition--the rough, cold exterior wall versus the inviting, warm interior--encapsulates the "hidden bar" culture of Tallinn. While Viru Street itself is a main tourist artery known for flower stalls and souvenir shops, the courtyards behind the facades (like at Viru 13/15) often host rooftop bars like A"rkel or speakeasy-style venues. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  This evening view is likely a side street or courtyard just off the bustling Viru Street, possibly near the intersection with Vene Street or Sauna Street given the architectural style and proximity to nightlife areas. The most striking feature is the graffiti-covered wooden doors on the right. The words KID3:feff, PINTSEL:feff (meaning "paintbrush" in Estonian), and other tags cover the chevron-patterned double doors. This type of street art is common in the "alternative" or less-polished corners of the Old Town, often near bars and clubs. To the left, a brightly lit shop window with modern art prints or posters suggests this is a commercial area that remains active into the evening. The purple and blue lighting effects contribute to a club-like atmosphere, consistent with the nearby Viru Street and Sauna Street nightlife districts. The narrow cobblestone street slopes gently upward, flanked by tall, plastered buildings in pastel colors (pink, yellow, purple). The building on the right features a distinctive green downspout and a small blue diamond-shaped sign (likely a utility marker). Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Decorative vase, located in the parterre of the park near the Main Building of the Forestry University, a concrete copy of a 19th-century original. The original vase was created in the 1860s by the famous sculptor David Jensen (1816-1902). The original work was carved from unpolished granite. Today s version is a concrete replica installed in the 1970s. The central motif depicts putti (cherubs), which are playful, chubby male children often found in classical art. The putti appear to be engaged in a playful struggle with a goat, a common allegorical theme in baroque and neoclassical art often representing the abundance of nature or Bacchic festivities. This theme fits well with the park s history as a place of botanical study and appreciation of nature. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Part of the Maze (or Labyrinth) located in the Lower Garden. The area features a classic French formal garden layout with geometrically trimmed hedges and gravel paths, characteristic of the early 18th-century design commissioned by Alexander Menshikov. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Large, overlapping brackets of Dyer s Mazegill mushrooms (Phaeolus schweinitzii) one meter above ground on a large pine in Dubki Park. Sestroretsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Looking down Mu"u"rivahe Street (Mu"u"rivahe ta"nav), running alongside the medieval city wall of Tallinn. The dominant feature is the massive, 14th-century limestone defensive wall on the right. What stands out in this specific section (near Mu"u"rivahe 52) are the large concrete buttresses supporting the wall. Unlike the original medieval masonry, these are modern reinforcements added during the Soviet era (specifically in the late 1960s or 70s) to stabilize this section of the wall, which was in danger of collapsing. While effective, they are often noted for their distinct, brutalist contrast with the historic stonework. Further down the wall, you can see the red-tiled roof of the defensive walkway (chemin de ronde) and the towers (Hellemann Tower is nearby) that made Tallinn one of the best-fortified cities in Northern Europe. At the base of the wall, the original pointed arches (niches) are illuminated, highlighting the texture of the rough-hewn limestone. These niches historically housed workshops or stalls. The street name "Mu"u"rivahe" literally means "the gap between the walls," referring to the space between the main city wall and the lower defensive earthworks that once existed here. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Soft green carpet of Knight s Plume Moss (Ptilium crista-castrensis) in a spruce forest Kannelyarvi, north from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 1, 2025  A quiet, atmospheric section of Pikk Street (near Pikk 5 and 7), one of the oldest and most important commercial streets in medieval Tallinn. Veta Fashion (Pikk 6/8): On the left, the brightly lit shop window belongs to Veta, a well-known Estonian brand specializing in knitwear and linen clothing. The building itself features a classic stucco fac,ade with large display windows that invite passersby to look in. On the right, the building with the blue-and-red wooden door (Pikk 5) is home to the Noku Klubi, a somewhat "secret" bohemian cultural club and restaurant located on the upper floor. The heavy, colorful door is a distinctive landmark for locals knowing where to find this hidden gem. Further up on the right, the red brick building with Gothic-style pointed arches stands out against the plastered facades, adding texture and historical depth to the streetscape. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  View of Gulf of Finland from Dybki Park in Sestroretsk, 15 miles north-west from Sankt Petersburg. Russia, October 2, 2000  "Bulldozing" trails left by a freshwater mussel of the family Unionidae, most probably the Duck Mussel (Anodonta anatina) or the Painter s Mussel (Unio pictorum) on a beach near Kurort. The deep, meandering furrow left in the sand is a classic "ploughing" trace (known as repichnia). These mussels use a large, muscular foot to drag themselves slowly through the upper layer of sediment, leaving behind the U-shaped groove. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Hall on the Island in Catherine Park, view from Ferry Crossing. It was originally built in the late 1740s by the architect Savva Chevakinsky in the Baroque style, with decorations based on sketches by Rastrelli. In 1794, under Catherine the Great, the architect Giacomo Quarenghi completely rebuilt it in the Classical style. He simplified the decor, giving it the restrained, elegant appearance seen today--white walls, large arched windows, and a modest green roof. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Gulf of Finland near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 20, 2012  Gulf of Finland in Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  The wilder, naturalistic aesthetic of Alexander Park s landscape section. The visual appeal lies in the layered textures of the undergrowth--a mix of golden birch leaves and red shrubbery--creating a chaotic but harmonious "tapestry" effect. Unlike the formal alleys, this scene emphasizes density and verticality, with thin birch trunks contrasting against the soft, diffuse background of the forest depth. It evokes the intimacy of a forest interior (uncultivated nature), a deliberate romantic counterpoint to the manicured geometry of the nearby "New Garden". Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Forest composition at shoreline of Istok (Ha"rka"lammet) Lake. Kannelyarvi, north from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 1, 2025  Forest-like atmosphere and natural landscape in Sergievka Park near Universitet. Old Peterhof, west from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 13, 2025  Gulf of Finland near Sestroretsk, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, June 26, 2003  A fort in Gulf of Finland near Solnechnoe and Sestroretsk. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  Gulf of Finland between Solnechnoe and Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  View of Gulf of Finland and a fort built by Peter the Great in Sestroretsk, 15 miles north-west from Sankt Petersburg. Russia, October 2, 2000  A quiet, historic section of Rataskaevu Street, just up from the well-known Cat s Well. The large bronze relief on the yellow wall to the left (Rataskaevu 10) is a memorial to Voldemar Panso (1920-1977), a legendary Estonian actor, director, and drama teacher. The building houses the Drama School of the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, which Panso founded. The relief, created by sculptor Jaak Soans in 1979, depicts Panso s profile emerging from the "stage curtain" of the wall. The building at Rataskaevu 22 (just beyond the Panso relief) is historically significant as the former home of the renowned Renaissance painter Michel Sittow (c. 1469-1525). He was born in Tallinn (then Reval) and became a court portraitist for European royalty, including Isabella of Castile and Henry VII of England. The street features well-preserved medieval merchant houses with their characteristic high gables and hoist beams (used for lifting goods into storage lofts). The narrow, cobblestone path winds gently uphill, creating an intimate atmosphere distinct from the wider commercial streets below. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Remains of a Finnish hydroelectric power plant on the Volchya River (formerly Saijanjoki), located near the village of Peta"ja"rvi (now Petrovskoye) in the Leningrad Region. The dam structure, including the concrete pillars and spillway, is still standing, creating a scenic waterfall that is a popular tourist stop on the Vyaryamyanselka Ridge eco-trail. Petyayarvi north from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 5, 2025  Icy Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Bolders in Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 15, 2017  Dunes and Gulf of Finland between Solnechnoe and Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  A birch grove in Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park. The composition is defined by the striking, repeating vertical lines of the white birch trunks. This "bar code" pattern creates a strong visual rhythm that cuts through the soft, chaotic texture of the foliage. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Boats in Gulf of Finland in Sestroretsk, 15 miles north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 8, 2007  Gulf of Finland and Sestroretsk from a spit in Tarkhovka Park, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, August 2, 2024  Ice crystals in Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Glittering ice crystals in Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Melting ice crystals in Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017 |
