Nicholas II

My working visit to Serbia – Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: at the entrance to the the Royal Palace (Kraljevski Dvor) in Belgrade
Paul Gilbert © 2026

On 20th September 2026, I arrived in Belgrade, for what would be my first visit to Serbia. I would like to emphasize that this was not a holiday/vacation, but a working visit – my first in 8 years!! The purpose of my visit was to obtain information and photographs for my forthcoming book: Nicholas II and Serbia: A Nation Honours Russia’s Last Tsar.

I am a firm believer that one cannot effectively write about a place, which one has never been, so I took advantage of Air Serbia’s new new seasonal non-stop service from Toronto to Belgrade. I am pleased to say, that I accomplished every thing I set out to do on my itinerary, and then some! I took more than 300 photographs, some of which will be in my new book.

Click on any photo to enlarge and see in greater detail – ENJOY!

PHOTOS: 4 views of the historic Hotel Moskva in central Belgrade
(Click on each photo to enlarge and view in greater detail)
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Hotel Moskva

I stayed at the historic Hotel Moskva, a 4-star hotel in the city center, and within walking distance of many of the sights on my itinerary. I got a great rate by taking advantage of the hotel’s ‘bed and breakfast’ rate by booking more than 30 days in advance, saving 20% off my total bill!

The Hotel Moskvna was built in the early 20th century by a group of Russian businessmen. It has welcomed many high ranking politicians, celebrities and even royals. In 1920, Nicholas II’s younger sister Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna and her family stayed here – as guests of King Alexander Karadjordjevic – before travelling on to Denmark.

It is interesting to note that Grand Duchess Olga returned to Belgrade in 1930, where she took part in the ‘Great Exhibition of Russian Art’, displaying some of her paintings. You can read more about Olga’s stays in Belgrade in my forthcoming book.

I set aside a couple of hours each day to study for my catechism, which included the book Catechism: A Short Guide of Orthodox Christianity, written in by the late Metropolitan Hilarion Aleeyev (1948-2022), First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR).

I must say that the hotel put on a magnificent buffet breakfast. Tables laden with every hot and cold breakfast dish were offered. I tried a number of Serbian dishes, The hotel is famous for it’s Moskva Šnit (Moscow Cake) – which was recommended to me by several people.

PHOTO: Moskva Šnit (Moscow Cake)

Moskva Šnit

Moskva Šnit (Moscow Cake) is a protected Serbian brand featuring sponge layers, made of egg whites, sugar, ground almonds, hazelnuts (or walnuts), and a small amount of flour. The cream filling consists of a cooked egg yolk, starch, and milk custard blended with whipped butter (custard-buttercream/crème diplomat). The center is a fruit filling, consisting of sour cherries (morello cherries), pineapple pieces, and sometimes peaches. The toppings and Garnish: Sweet cream / Chantilly whipped cream, toasted sliced almonds, and chopped toasted hazelnuts.

Being diabetic, however, did not stop me from a small sample with coffee. I have never tasted anything so sinfully delicious, so decadent in my life!

PHOTOl Monument to Emperor Nicholas II, Alexandrov Park, Belgrade
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Monument to Emperor Nicholas II (Alexandrov Park)

Many people may be surprised to learn that the Serbian capital has not one BUT three monuments to Emperor Nicholas II. One of the most impressive monuments to Nicholas II, installed outside of Russia is this monument in Park Alexandrov, situated in the Serbian capital of Belgrade.

The monument was donated by the Russian Historical Society, and consecrated on 16th November 2014, by His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia and Patriarch Irinej of Serbia (1930-2020).

The bronze monument with a granite base was made by Andrey Kovalchuk and Gennady Pravotorov, weighs 40 tons and stands 7.5 m (25 ft) in height, of which 3.5 m (11 ft) is the monument itself.

It bears an inscription on the pedestal which reads the words of Emperor Nicholas II: “All my efforts will be directed to preserving the dignity of Serbia and in any case, Russia will not be indifferent to the fate of Serbia”.

It is interesting to note that the monument was installed on the site of the former Embassy of the Russian Empire, which was destroyed in the 1940s.

PHOTO: Entrance to Russky Dom / Russian House
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Russian House in Memory of Emperor Nicholas II

My next stop was the Russian House — Russian Centre of Science and Culture, which from 1933-45 was named Emperor Nicholas II’s Russian House.

Establishment of the Russian Center is strongly connected to Russian emigrants in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, after the October 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. The Rusian House opened in 1933, as a center aimed at promoting Russian language and culture. It is just one of 44 Russian Cultural Centers worldwide.

At the entrance to the building, are photos depicting Emperor Nicholas II and King Alexander Karadjordjevic. As you enter the main entrance, a small hall to the left is dominated by two bust-monuments Emperor Nicholas II and King Alexander Karadjordjevic.

PHOTO: Bust-monument to Nicholas II on display at the Russian House

PHOTO: The Monument to Russian Glory, the world’s
first monument to honour Emperor Nicholas II

Monument to Russian Glory

The Monument to Russian Glory was completed and consecrated in January 1936, in the Russian Necropolis of the New Cemetery in Belgrade. The monument honours both Emperor Nicholas II and soldiers of the Russian Imperial Army who died during the First World War.

It is interesting to note, that Russia’s last Tsarwas canonized as a saint by the Serbian Orthodox Church in 1938 – 43 years BEFORE the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) in 1981 and 62 years BEFORE the Moscow Patriarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church in 2000. The image of the Holy St. Tsar Nicholas II is depicted on the wall of the Church of St. Sava in Belgrade, which is the fourth largest Eastern Orthodox church in the world.

PHOTO:View of the Church of the Holy Trinity, Belgrade
Paul Gilbert © 2026

View of the iconostasis (left), and the tomb of General Pytur Wrangel (right)
Paul Gilbert © 2026

The Church of the Holy Trinity

I was delighted to find the Russian church (ROCOR), situated in the Tašmajdan Park, which was just a short walk from my hotel.

It was erected in 1924 according to the plans of Russian émigré architect Valery Stashevsky and was meant mainly for refugees from Soviet Russia who arrived in Serbia in thousands from 1920, after the defeat of the White Army in Russia during the Russian Civil War.

The interior reflects the Orthodox churches in Russia. The iconostasis is magnificent. There is also an icon depicting the Holy St. Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich – son of Nicholas II.

Russian general Pyotr Wrangel (1878-1928), the last commander of the Russian Army in South Russia, was re-buried in the church in October 1929.

I was so happy that I was afforded an opportunity to pray in this particular church, because I knew that when I returned to Canada, I would at long last be received and baptized into the Russian Orthodox Church.

In April 1999, the church building was severely damaged during the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia, by an air missile attack. The church was re-consecrated in March 2007.

PHOTO: Icon depicting the Holy St. Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich
Church of the Holy Trinity, Belgrade
Paul Gilbert © 2026

PHOTO: I ordered a special tie from AMAZON for my meeting with HRH Crown Prince Alexander Karadjordjevic. The tie reflects the colours of the Serbian flag with the coat of arms which still features a royal crown. Paul Gilbert © 2026

PHOTO: HRH Crown Prince Alexander Karadjordjevic and Paul Gilbert in the Blue
Drawing Room of the the Royal Palace (Kraljevski Dvor) in Belgrade
Paul Gilbert © 2026

The Royal Palace and HRH Crown Prince Alexander Karađorđević

The highlight of my visit to Serbia was an invitation to the Royal Palace in Belgrade, where I received an audience with HRH Crown Prince Alexander, head of the House of Karađorđević.

Alexander is the only child of King Peter II (1923-1970) and Princess Alexandra of Greece and Denmark (1921-1993).He is a godson of HM Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022).

The palace compound consists of the Royal Palace and the White Palace. I visited the Royal Palace, which was constructed between 1924 and 1929. It was designed in the Serbian-Byzantine style by Živojin Nikolić and the famous Serbian-Russian architect Nikolai Krasnov (1864-1939) – the same architect who built the beautiful white Livadia Palace for Emperor Nicholas II and his family, which overlooks the Black Sea on the southern Crimean coast. It is interesting to note that Krasnov is buried in the Russian section of the New Cemetery in Belgrade.

PHOTO: 6 views of the Royal Palace
(Click on each photo to enlarge and view in greater detail)
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Upon arrival at the palace, I was greeted by Uroš Parezanović, who serves as Head of Public Relations and Protocol. He invited me into the King’s Cabinetm which served as the personal workspace and study for King Alexander I and later King Peter II of Yugoslavia. Today, it is the favourite workspace of Crown Prince Alexander.

At precisely 11:00 am, His Royal Highness entered the room with a cheerful smile and a hearty greeting. He crossed the room towards me and warmly shook my hand – my tie gave him a chuckle. I must say that for an 81-year-old man, HRH looks remarkably well and youthful for his age!

His Royal Highness made me most welcome. My audience lasted about 35 minutes. It was a cordial visit, and we discussed a number of topics. I was excited to tell HRH about my forthcoming book Nicholas II and Serbia: A Nation Honours Russia’s Last Tsar, however, I was not expecting the reception I received.

I was both shocked and disappointed by HRH’s negative remarks about Nicholas II, the Russian Tsar, who sacrificed his throne and Empire to save Serbia during the First World War.

In my forthcoming book, I have devoted an entire chapter to the relations between the Russian Empire and Serbia and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. In addition is a chapter devoted to the Karađorđević dynasty during the reign of Nicholas II and the years during Russian emigration in the 1920s. The full text of my conversation with HRH, regarding Nicholas II, will be published in my book.

Following the meeting, His Royal Highness was kind enough to pose for a few photos with me in the Blue Drawing Room is decorated in the Baroque style. We said a few parting words and HRH left the room.

It was at this point, that I was taken under the wing of his secretary Vidak Orlović, who took me on a tour of the palace and royal chapel, the latter of which is currently under restoration. Vidak was a fascinating man, he was well versed in the history of the palace and the dynasty.

Truly a great honour and memorable day for me! Special thanks to Nik Manojlovich for initiating the introduction to HRH back in March of this year. I continue to pray, that one day the monarchy will be restored in Serbia.

PHOTOS: museum and bust of King Peter I Karadjordjevic
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Oplenac and St. George’s Church – Mausoleum

My last day in Serbia, I visited Oplenac and St. George’s Church, which houses the Karadjordjevic Mausoleum. Prior to visiting the church, I toured the small, but very intersting museum dedicated to King Peter I Karadjordjevic.

St. George’s Church was unbelievable! The entire interior walls are decorated entirely with tiny mosaic tiles. On the ground floor is the tomb of Peter I. In the crypt are the tombs of 26 other members of the dynasty whose eternal place of rest is in this magnigicent mausoleum. Six generations of the Karađorđević family have been buried in this church.

St. George’s Church remains one of the most beautiful churches I have ever had the honour of stepping foot in and praying.

PHOTOS: St. George’s Church and Karadjordjevic Mausoleum
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Finally, I visited the Royal Vineyards, where I was given a tour and wine tasting afterwards. I sampled both white and red wines produced in the vineyards. I even bought a bottle of the red wine to take home with me. I have yet to open it, and when I do, I shall think of Serbia and the impression it has left on me: the history, the beauty of the country, the warmth and friendliness of the people, my visit to the Royal Palace and audience with HRH and much more. It was truly an amazing visit!

PHOTOS: Touring the Royal Vineyards
Paul Gilbert © 2026

Guess who got upgraded to Business Class on the 10-hour flight back
to Toronto? It was a fitting end to an absolutely perfect visit to Serbia!
Paul Gilbert © 2026

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My forthcoming book ‘Nicholas II and Serbia: A Nation Honours Russia’s Last Tsar’ will be available in both hard cover and paperback editions from AMAZON in February 2027! Follow me on Facebook for updates.

Romanov Sapphire from the Russian Crown Jewels to be auctioned

Posted on 1 Day Ago by Paul Gilbert

An exquisite 197.80-carat sapphire, once worn by the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna and documented among the Russian Crown Jewels is to auctioned next month by Sotheby’s. The opening bid is set at 600,000 Swiss Francs [$730,000 USD], the estimate is 850,000 to 1.7 million Swiss Francs [$1,030,800 to 2,1 million USD].

The Romanov Sapphire, an unheated Ceylon gemstone formerly mounted by Fabergé, is the leading lot in the Sotheby’s ‘Royal & Noble Jewels’ sale. The auction will be held on 11th November 2026, at the Mandarin Oriental in Geneva.

In February 1903, the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna [mother of Emperor Nicholas II], attended the famous costume ball held in the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. She wore this sapphire at in its diamond setting by Fabergé, together with its pair, on the front panel of her skirt – seen in the photo below. The image of the Dowager Empress in 17th century costume wearing these extraordinarily large sapphires of old Mughal cutting-style together with numerous other jewels of the same superlative dimensions and quality, is a perfect summary of the splendour of the Russian Imperial Court.

PHOTO: Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna dressed in 17th-century
costume for the 1903 Costume Ball in the Winter Palace

Following the Russian Revolution, it was recorded in the Fersman inventory of the Russian Crown Jewels before being sold during the Soviet government’s dispersal of imperial treasures.

It subsequently entered the collection of opera singer and socialite Ganna Walska (1887-1984), who acquired it from Cartier in 1927. The stone later returned to auction at Sotheby’s in New York in 1971 and Geneva in 1992. Cartier created its present transformable bracelet setting in 2015, incorporating brilliant-cut diamonds and accented by modified shield step-cut diamonds and an interchangeable rock crystal centerpiece.

Reports from the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) and Gubelin confirm the sapphire’s Ceylon origin and unheated status. Sotheby’s says the combination of its size, rarity and documented imperial provenance makes it one of the most significant surviving gemstones associated with the Russian Crown Jewels.

Paul Gilbert. 30 October 2026

***

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BOOK DESCRIPTION

Also known as the Fersman Catalogue, this book documents the Romanov jewels seized from the Imperial Family in 1917. The Bolshevik government attempted to sell them in the 1920s, with only limited success. Originally published as a four-part folio in 1925, this highly sought after historic record is now available in a book format [both hardcover and paperback editions] for the very first time.

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English language. 206 pages + 100 black & white photos

Church in honour of Nicholas II under construction in Moscow

Posted on 5 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

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PHOTO: artist concept of the church in honour of the Holy Tsar Nicholas II

In 2026, the construction of a church complex in honour of the Holy Tsar Passion-Bearer Nicholas II began in the village of Anino, situated in the south of Moscow. The church is scheduled to be completed in 2028.

The large stone church will be built in the Russian Art Nouveau style and will accommodate up to 800 people. The project includes a cross-domed composition, two altars, a three-nave refectory, a lower church (in the basement) and one golden dome symbolizing the Holy Tsar Nicholas II.

The church was designed by Fyodor Afuksenidi, an architects from the the architectural and design firm Spetsstroymontazh LLC.

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PHOTO: artist concept of the church complex in honour of the Holy Tsar Nicholas II

The church in honour of the Holy Tsar Passion-Bearer Nicholas II is the first in Moscow, however, it is not the first in Russia. These is also a churches dedicated to Nicholas II in St. Petersburg and Novosibirsk.

PHOTOS: artist concept of the interior of the
church in honour of the Holy Tsar Nicholas II

Paul Gilbert. 26 October 2026

“Nicholas II: Family and Throne” Exhibition opens in Kazan

Posted on 7 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

On 23rd October 2026, a large-scale exhibition Nicholas II: Family and Throne, opened at the Hermitage-Kazan Exhibition Centre – a branch of the State Hermitage Museum (St. Petersburg). opened

The exhibition showcases more than 350 exhibits – from the Collection of the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg – arranged in chronological and thematic order in 5 halls of the museum:

the First Hall is dedicated to the youth of the Tsesarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich and the beginning of his reign.
the Second Hall tells about foreign policy and the reception of the emperor.
the Third Hall recreates the atmosphere of the library, where internal state affairs were held.
•the Fourth Hall introduces visitors to the private, family life of the last Tsar.
the Fifth Hall demonstrates the brilliance of the Imperial Court and also touches on the events of the First World War.

Visitors will have an opportunity to view the personal items of the last Tsar and his family, including the uniforms of Nicholas II and the gowns and dresses of Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, toys of the Grand Duchesses and Tsesarevich Alexei, items from the rooms in the Winter Palace and furniture from the imperial yachts. In addition are items of jewellery and decorative art, portraits and photographs, and other personal items.

Click on the link below, to view more than 100 colour photographs of just some of the items on display:

115 Colour Photos of the Nicholas II: Family and Throne exhibition

The exhibition begins with a hall dedicated to the childhood, boyhood and youth of Tsesarevich Nikolai Alexandrovich and his accession to the throne. Portraits of the young heir, vintage photographs from his 1891 visit to the Far East, an icon presented to him after an assassination attempt in Japan and a painting depicting his Holy Coronation in Moscow in May 1896.

Among the exhibits is a carved wooden tray dish from Kazan depicting views of the city. It was presented to the Emperor from Kazan following his accession to the throne in 1894.

The events of the internal and external political life of Russia, are told through such exhibits as the helmet of a cuirassier and the uniform of a policeman, souvenirs of the Russian-French alliance and gifts from the Chinese Court, posters from the First World War and items from the infirmary opened in the Winter Palace at the outbreak of the First World War.

Visitors to the exhibition will also be able to see pieces of original furniture from the Reception Room of Nicholas II in the Winter Palace, where the Tsar met with ambassadors, as well as the reconstruction of the Emperor’s Library, where ministers reported to their sovereign and resolved issues of domestic policy.

The splendour of the Russian Court is reflected in the evening dresses of the Empress from the fashionable ateliers of Lamanova and Brizak, jewelry of the Fabergé company, the ceremonial uniform of court servants, silver tray dishes, outfits from the famous 1903 ball held in the Winter Palace and gifts in honour of the 300th anniversary of the House of Romanov in 1913. In addition, a ceremonial table with a porcelain wedding service from the Small Dining Room in the Winter Palace is on display.

The exhibition Nicholas II: Family and Throne exhibition runs until 5th September 2027, at the Hermitage-Kazan Exhibition Centre.

An illustrated Russian-language catalogue has been prepared for the exhibition. Published by Slavia Publishing House (St. Petersburg). The price of the catalogue is 3,500 rubles ($43 USD). Unfortunately, due to the current economic sanctions imposed by the West, it will not be possible to order a copy from Russia.

Paul Gilbert. 24 October 2026

Monument to Nicholas II unveiled in the Svyato-Bogolyubsky Convent

Posted on 10 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

On 19th October 2026, a new bust-monument to the Holy Tsar-Passion-Bearer Nicholas II was unveiled and consecrated on the grounds of the Nativity of the Mother of God Convent in the village of Bogolyubovo, Suzdal District, Vladimir Region.

The event was attended by Metropolitan Nikandr of Vladimir and Suzdal (seen in the photo below), Governor of the Vladimir Region Alexander Alexandrovich Avdeev, statesman and public figure Pavel Astakhov, General Director of the Spas TV channel Boris Korchevnikov, abbess of the monastery Abbess Luciana with the sisters of the convent and guests of honor.

The monument was erected by philanthropists and volunteers as part of the Alley of Russian Glory project.

Metropolitan Nikandr consecrated the monument (photo above) and sprinkled those attending the ceremony with holy water. Then a solemn laying of flowers took place at the foot of the monument to the Tsar-Passion-Bearer.

In an address to the honoured guests, members of the clergy and parishoners, the head of the Vladimir Metropolia noted the symbolic significance of the installation of the monument in the Bogolyubsk Monastery and the spiritual connection between the Holy Tsar-Passion-Bearer Nicholas II and the Holy Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky (1111-1174).

“The installation of this monument is indeed symbolic. Nicholas II died for our country on the day when Prince Andrei is commemorated, so they are closely connected, and this connection is carefully preserved within the walls of the Bogolyubsky Convent,” said Metropolitan Nikandr.

During the solemn event, Metropolitan Nikandr presented Boris Korchevnikov and Pavel Astakhov with medals of the Holy Prince Andrei Bogolyubsky 3rd Class.

The Alley of Russian Glory project is carried out with the participation of Pavel Astakhov, Boris Korchevnikov, Mikhail Serdyukov and philanthropists. According to Pavel Astakhov, to date, a total of 79 monuments of Russian leaders have been erected in different regions of the country.

The installation of the monument in Bogolyubovo, is the 19th monument of Russia’s last Tsar to be installed in Russia this year. Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, between 125 to 150 monuments, busts and memorial plaques have been installed in more than 50 regions of the Russian Federation.

Paul Gilbert. 21 October 2026

Monuments to Nicholas II and his son unveiled in Kalmykia

Posted on 12 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

PHOTOS: bust-monuments of Emperor Nicholas II and his son and heir Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich, installed on the grounds of the Church of the Holy Passion-Bearer Tsesarevich Alexei in the town of Gorodovikovsk

On 18th October 2026, a pair of bust-monuments to Emperor Nicholas II and his son Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaoevich – were unveiled on the grounds of the Church of the Holy Passion-Bearer Tsesarevich Alexei in the town of Gorodovikovsk, Republic of Kalmykia. Kalmykia is located north of the North Caucasus, in the southern Volga region of Russia).

A memorial plaque was instaled on the wall of the facade of the church with the text of a telegram sent by Emperor Nicholas II to the residents of Bashanta – the town was renamed Gorodovikovsk in 1971. It should be noted that Gorodovikovsk has a deep and unique connection to cossack history.

The monuments were donated to the Elista and Kalmyk Diocese by Pavel Astakhov, a Russian statesman, writer and TV presenter, and their installation, “is an effort to preserve the memory of the historical ties of the Kalmyk land with the Russian Imperial House and the service of the Kalmyk Cossacks to the Fatherland.”

The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of the Interreligious Council of Kalmykia and the Kalmyk Cossack District.

The opening ceremony of the monuments was attended by the Head of the Administration of the Republic of Kalmykia Kirill Popov, Archbishop of Elista and Kalmykia Justinian, members of the Orthodox clergy, Cossacks, public organizations and residents of the city.

During the unveiling ceremony, Pavel Astakhov spoke about the importance of preserving the memory of the Holy Passion-Bearer Tsar Nicholas II and his Family and donated a banner from the NVO zone with the emblems of units bearing the names of Orthodox saints to the Cossack Cadet Corps of Gorodovikovsk.

For his contribution to educational activities aimed at preserving the traditions of veneration of the Holy Royal Passion-Bearers in Kalmykia, Pavel Astakhov was awarded the diocesan medal “For Labors for the Good of the Elista Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church”.

PHOTOS: close-up of the bust-monuments of Emperor Nicholas II and his son and heir Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich, installed on the grounds of the Church of the Holy Passion-Bearer Tsesarevich Alexei in the town of Gorodovikovsk

To the sounds of “Glory”, the cadets of the Cossack Cadet Corps named after Oka Ivanovich Gorodovikov removed the white covers from the monuments, and the guests of honor laid baskets of flowers at the base of each of the two pedestals.

Kirill Popov, Archbishop Justinian, representatives of the city’s religious communities, and Cossack leaders also delivered greetings.

The ceremony ended with a solemn walk-past by Cossacks and cadets. Parishioners’ and residents of the town were then invited to lay flowers at the bust-monuments.

It should be noted that the place for the installation of these monuments was not chosen by chance. Before the 1917 Revolution, Gorodovikovsk, formerly called Bashanta, maintained special reverence for the Imperial Family. Following the birth of the heir to the throne in 1904, a church was built here in gratitude to God for the birth of Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich.

PHOTO: the facade of the church bears the image of the Holy St. Tsesarevich Alexei

The church was consecrated in honor of the heavenly patron of the Tsesarevich. The current church was laid in 2007 and consecrated in 2018 in honour of the Tsarevich-Passion-Bearer Alexi Nikolaevich.

Another historical episode is associated with a telegram from Nicholas II, sent in 1909 to the Kalmyks of the Bolshederbetovsky ulus [local tribal administration] with gratitude for their loyalty. In memory of the Emperor’s gratitude, the ulus assembly decided to install a silver plaque with the text of the telegram.

The installation of the monument in Gorodovikovsk, is the 18th monument of Russia’s last Tsar to be installed in Russia this year. Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, between 125 to 150 monuments, busts and memorial plaques have been installed in more than 50 regions of the Russian Federation.

Paul Gilbert. 20 October 2026

My baptism into the Russian Orthodox Church – Paul Gilbert

Posted on 16 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

On Wednesday 14th October 2026 – the day that Orthodox Christians celebrate the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos (Mother of God) – I was received and baptized into the Russian Orthodox Church. This event took place less than 2 weeks before my 70th birthday.

The rite of baptism was performed by Father Maksim (Abroskin), rector of Our Lady of Smolensk Church (ROCOR) in Jacksons Point, Ontario, which is located about an hour and half north of Toronto, in the beautiful cottage country of Lake Simcoe.

I would like to emphasize that my decision to convert from Anglican to Orthodoxy was not the result of a sudden whim. On the contrary, I have been considering converting to Orthodoxy for some years now. Over the years, particularly during my 29 visits to Russia between 1986 and 2018, I spent many hours in Orthodox churches attending Divine Services, lighting candles and venerating holy icons.

I have honoured the Holy St. Tsar Nicholas II and his family since I was a young boy, and I have dedicated many years since to the clearing his much slandered name from those who continue to spread the myths and lies initiated by the Bolsheviks.

I firmly believe that it was the Holy St. Tsar Nicholas II , who led me to Orthodoxy. And I am not alone. This amazing and very deep spiritual path has been followed by many other believers. The Holy St. Tsar Nicholas II become an example of true Christian faith, meekness and perseverance during the most difficult trials of his life to each of us.

Nicholas II is now my patron saint

When one is baptized in the Orthodox faith, the person takes the name a saint from whom they take their name. This practice is significant as it establishes a personal relationship with the saint, who intercedes for the individual in their spiritual journey. I have followed the example made by Charles Sydney Gobbes (1876-1963), who took the name “Nikolai”. in honour of Nicholas II. the Holy St. Tsar Nicholas II is now my patron saint.

My baptism shirt was hand-made in Russia

I ordered my baptism shirt from the Russian Clothing Company. Each piece is crafted or sourced from skilled local manufacturers across Russia, who carry on the folk traditions of Russian craftsmanship. Their mission is to help keep Slavic heritage alive around the world. The Orthodox cross embroidered on the front of my shirt is simply beautiful and I am so pleased that I could help support this company’s efforts to carry on the folk traditions of Russian craftsmanship.

Our Lady of Smolensk Orthodox Church

In December 2025, I had a health scare which found me in the ER of our local hospital. It was a very traumatic experience, one which forced me to take a more pro-active approach to my health and taking better care of myself. It was at the same time that I asked myself, “what am I doing for my faith?” It was at this point that I decided I had to also take a pro-active approach to my spiritual health. I knew that I wanted to convert to Orthodoxy and began to search for a Russian Orthodox Church, where I could be baptized into the faith, attend Divine Services and take an active part in parish life.

In early June, I received an invitation to visit Our Lady of Smolensk Orthodox Church (ROCOR) in Jacksons Point. Upon my arrival, I could not believe my eyes. The tiny blue church looked as though it had been plucked from the Russian landscape and transplanted in a richly wooded area filled with Birch trees.

That morning as Divine Services began, my eyes scanned the magnificent iconostasis. I gazed up at the dome and the frescoes painted on the ceilings, returning to take in each of the icons. As my gaze shifted to the far side of the church, I saw a familiar face staring back at me – it was the Holy Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II, who was depicted in a large icon of the Holy Royal Martyrs. Father Maxim later told me that the icon came from Jordanville, and took 6 men to carry it!

I cannot begin to explain what I felt the moment that I met the Tsar’s gaze that morning, but one thing I do know, it was at that moment that I knew in my heart that he had led me to this lovely church, and it was here that I would be baptized.

My catechism began in early July, and since that time I have attended Divine Services on Sunday, been instructed on the teachings of Orthodoxy. I read the Gospels and Orthodox Prayer Book, and studied fervently a number of books including Catechism: A Short Guide to Orthodox Christianity by Metropolitan Hilarion Alfeyev (ROCOR), who served as the First-Hierarch of the ROCOR from 18 May 2008 until his death in 2022.

PHOTO: wearing my Orthodox cross

During the service, Father Maksim blessed both my Orthodox cross – seen in the photo above – and my icon of the Holy St. Tsar Nicholas II. Following the baptism service the parish sisterhood had prepared a lunch was prepared in my honour. – see photo above

I would like to add that it had been raining and overcast that day, however, after I stepped out of the font, the interior of the church filled with sunshine. I was standing at the foot of the font, when Father Maksim turned to me smiling and said “Paul! Look! Look!” At that moment rays of sunshine were pouring in through the window on the side wall – see photo above. I couldn’t help but think that the Holy Royal Martyrs were rejoicing with me!

The day of my baptism into Orthodoxy is truly a landmark event in my life. I keep touching the cross around my neck or admiring it in the mirror, because it all seems to surreal. I am so happy!

After years of soul searching, this “son of old Russia” has at long last found his home in the Russian Orthodox Church. Now I can attend Divine Services and pray in any Orthodox church, without feeling like an outsider. Glory to God for All things!

Paul Gilbert. 15 October 2026

Monument to Nicholas II and his family installed in the Teikovo district

Posted on 21 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

On 3rd October 2026, a new monument to Emperor Nicholas II and his family was unveiled on the grounds of the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God “Inexhaustible Chalice” in the village of Nerl, Teikovo district. The village is located 62 km southwest of the city of Ivanovo. The sculptural composition was installed with the financial assistance of philanthropist Andrei Gusarov

“Today, an important event took place in the village of Nerl – the opening of a monument to the Romanov dynasty, which for more than three hundred years determined the fate of Russia. This monument to the family of the last Emperor Nicholas II: his wife Alexandra Feodorovna and their children – Olga, Tatiana, Maria, Anastasia and Alexei, is an example of a true Russian family, where the main values were love and kindness to one another. After all, it is the family that is the basis of society: it is in it that the very values are born, which then determine the path of entire generations,” said Gusarov.

At the opening ceremony of the monument, Hegumen German, rector of the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God “Inexhaustible Chalice”, welcomed parishoners, members of the clergy, as well as the head of the Teikovo district Vitaly Katkov and philanthropist Andrei Gusarov.

The monument to Russia’s last Imperial Family is the second to be installed in the Russian Federation this year. Recall that on 19th August, a monument was installed on the grounds of the Church of of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, situated in the village of Bely Yar, Surgut district. In addition, a total of 17 monuments to Emperor Nicholas II have been installed in towns and cities across the country in 2026.

BOOK REVIEW – ‘Memories of Russia. My Travels in Post-Soviet Russia’

Posted on 23 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: Romanov historian and author Paul Gilbert

I recently received the following review of my book Memories of Russia. My Travels in Post-Soviet Russia from an American reader . . .

16th September 2026

Dear Paul Gilbert

“I came across Memories of Russia: My Travels in Post Soviet Russia, and what stayed with me was the depth of personal history behind the book. Twenty nine visits to Russia over four decades gives your observations a perspective that goes far beyond a conventional travelogue, especially when so many of the places you revisit are connected to the final years of Nicholas II and the Romanov family.

” . . . what stayed with me was the depth of personal history behind the book.”

“What particularly stood out was the way you bring historic places to life through firsthand experience. Your visits to the Kremlin, the Winter Palace, Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof, the State Archives, and other sites create a journey through both physical spaces and the history preserved within them. The combination of travel memories, archival research, and historical context gives the book a strong sense of continuity between the Russia you encountered and the past you have spent decades studying.

“I was also drawn to the extraordinary depth of your commitment to this subject. Your research into the life and reign of Nicholas II, your regular travels to Russia, your work organizing Romanov tours and conferences, and your publication of more than fifty books concerning the Russian Imperial family reflect a sustained dedication to preserving and examining this period of history. Your firsthand attendance at the 1998 funeral of Nicholas II and the 2018 Tsar’s Days events adds another remarkable dimension to that body of work.”

***

*You can order this title from most AMAZON outlets, including
the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Sweden,
Brazil, Mexico and Japan
*Note: prices are quoted in local currencies

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $28.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. 9″ x 6″ format. Hard cover and paperback. 314 pages.

Richly llustrated with more than 200 black and white photographs!

***

This year marks the 40th anniversary of my first visit to Russia. During the past four decades, I have visited Russia 29 times!

I travelled to Moscow, St. Petersburg – and the suburban towns of Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof, Pavlovsk, Gatchina and Strelna – as well as Yalta and Crimea, Ekaterinburg and Alapaevsk.

In my new book, which is part travelogue, part history, I share my personal impressions and history of a dozen historic sites, that I have visited – some on numerous occasions. Out of the dozen historic sites covered in my book, all but two have a connection to Russia’s last tsar Nicholas II.

Join me as I revisit such places as the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Petrovsky Travelling Palace and the Russian State Archives – where I explore the Romanov archives in Moscow; learn the fate of Nicholas II’s private apartments in the Winter Palace and the State Hermitage Theatre – venue for the famous 1903 Costume Ball; travel with me to the Children’s Island and the Feodorovsky Sovereign Cathedral – Nicholas II’s favourite church at Tsarskoye Selo; the ruins of the Lower Dacha at Peterhof and much more!

On the cover photo above, I am standing in the magnificent St. Andrew’s Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow. The date is 27th October 2000 – the day in which I marked my 44th birthday. Of all the wonderful memories I have from the 29 journeys I made to Russia between 1986-2018, this is among one of the most memorable!

800 items from the era of Nicholas II auctioned in Paris

Posted on 24 Days Ago by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: military uniform from the era of Emperor Nicholas II

Last month, the famous Hôtel Drouo auction house in Paris was the venue for the sale of 800 items of Russian Imperial art from the era of Emperor Nicholas II. Among these remnants of Russia’s glorious past are items which belonged to Emperor Nicholas II, Grand Duke Mikhail Alexandrovich and other members of the Russian Imperial Family.

The auction is based on the collection of “Monsieur. G.”, a French historian and collector of Russian origin, formed over more than 50 years. “Mr. G.” devoted a significant part of his life to the search for objects, archival documents and memorabilia that survived the Russian Revolution and the exodus of tens of thousands of White Russian Empires.

This outstanding collection features a marvelous pieces of Imperial Russian militaria worthy of any museum: uniforms, headgear and regimental badges, regimental flags, swords, daggers, orders, jetons and historical memorabilia spanning up to 1918.

In addition are portraits, paintings, photographs, icons, porcelain, silverware, jewelry, books and more. Of particular note are some 29 lots from the Collection of Grand Duke Mikhail Alexandrovich (see pages 96-103 in catalogue No. 1).

Recall that after marrying Natalia Wulfert (later Countess Brasova) without Tsar Nicholas II’s permission, Mikhail and Natalia left Russia in 1912 and briefly lived in exile in France. They returned to Russia following the outbreak of the First World War in 1914. After Mikhail was executed by the Bolsheviks in Perm, Russia, in 1918, Natalia and their son Georgy later spent time in France (where Georgy died in a car accident in Sens in 1931, and Natalia died in Paris in 1952).

The auction was held over two days: on 17th and 18th September 2026. The auction raised a total of 4.3 million Euros [$4.8 million USD].

Below, you can download, review and print ALL three French language catalogues, I have provided a link underneath each of the auction catalogue covers . . .