Unveiling Putin's latest sanctuary: From luxury to piety

The hidden camera once again infiltrated the interiors of a luxurious residence on the Black Sea coast near Gelendzhik in the Russian Krasnodar region. Alterations have been made to the billion-dollar sanctuary of the Russian leader. Adding to the numerous palatial features, a private personal chapel has been built. It's no longer a disco, casino, or strip club but a prayer room that has become the property's centrepiece.

Recent photos from inside Putin's residence were unveiled by the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), founded by the now-deceased opposition figure Alexei Navalny. He was the first to expose the extravagant construction, debunking the country's official narrative by proving that Vladimir Putin owns the estate.

In its latest report posted online, the Anti-Corruption Foundation reveals interior details previously unseen. The video highlights several updates in the rebuilding. The report was made public online a few hours before Putin was inaugurated for his fifth presidential term.

Following Navalny's revelations about the Putin palace in 2021, billionaire and long-time Putin associate Arkady Rotenberg claimed it. He argued it was his investment, planning to convert it into a hotel. Yet, despite the years that have passed, access to the exclusive interiors has been denied to outsiders, even the extremely wealthy.

Navalny showed that state money funded the construction of the grand facility on a cliff, the development of access roads, and the outfitting of both the residence and the expansive estate with vineyards and stables. The misappropriation of funds continues and could surpass billions of dollars in value.

As reported by the independent Russian TV network Meduza, the flow of state money to Gelendzhik hasn't ceased. The building, its recent renovations, and maintenance continue to be financed by state corporations disguised as various services.

The residence is missing nothing. It boasts pools, a music hall, a disco, a dining room, baroque bedrooms, fountains, and a casino. The latest report introduces additional chambers.

In Gelendzhik, there's also a secluded prayer room. The chapel contains a wooden chair, a small altar, and icons of Saint Vladimir the Great—the historical figure credited with unifying Ukraine and Russia a millennium ago.

The church space was established in what used to be recreational areas. The leader has recently been emphasizing his piety.

The site modification, like its construction, was carried out discreetly. Workers were brought in on chartered buses, but often, they were not granted immediate access to the site. They were subjected to thorough checks each time. Using phones on the premises was prohibited. Nevertheless, someone succeeded in making a video revealing, among other things, the church rooms.

Source: FBK, Meduza