Sunday, July 15, 2007

Brides on parade


As some of you know, I am in Moscow to record examples of Russian urban legends, but I'm game for pretty much anything folklorique. So imagine my delight yesterday, when visiting our old neighborhood, to get a blast of modern wedding ritual. The bridge over the canal near the Tretyakov gallery has become the place for brides to come and be photographed. Possibly because it is beautiful with lots of water fountains, but also because there is a non-through road on which one can easily leave a Hummer limo. There is also a park with inviting spots for brides to be photographed cradling live doves. I kid you not. Anyway since I was last here the bridge has sprouted a tree of "locks of eternity". This is a tradition I am not familiar with. Basically the happy couple brings a padlock with their names and wedding date etched and locks it to the tree. I have pictures but no way to upload so you'll have to use your imagination for now.

1 comment:

Underground Man said...

When I saw the title "Brides on Parade," I was sure you were talking about Temple Square. Padlocks and marriage: what a cheerful thought. But at least the Russian couples aren't bonded for eternity!!!