Novodevichy was constructed in the early 16th century to celebrate a Russian victory over the Lithuanians that allowed Russia to add Smolensk to the Russian Empire. It is famous for being the place where Peter the Great's half-sister Sophia lived while she was a regent in charge of Russia. Peter banished her to this site after she tried to challenge Peter's rule when she backed the infamous Streltsy revolt. Rumour has it that Peter hanged the Streltsy leaders right outside of Sophia's window. I have been here twice, and each time was captivated by it's beauty.