Back in the U.S.S.R.....

Enjoyed a delicious White Russian & meal at Cafe Cossachok in the city centre - happened to be sitting by the window next to this interesting instrument. It is a balalaika - popular in Russia, it is a three string instrument with a characteristic triangular shape. It can be dated back to the late 17th - early 18th century.

Some may remember The Beatles' referenced the instrument in the final verse of 'Back in the U.S.S.R.' ("Let me hear your balalaikas ringing out/Come and keep your comrade warm").