ABSTRACT
Foreign specialists in tsarist service did not work and live as isolated loners but were integrated into a complex communication system. This chapter explores how such experts acted within their family relationships, their circles of colleagues, the administration of the tsarist court, their own religious communities, and their neighbourhoods. Cultural interaction took place both locally, in Moscow, and – by post and through contacts with travellers and diplomats – in feedback with the places and countries of origin of the persons in question. The actors in this chapter are foreigners of various origins, professions, and denominations who were residents in Moscow. Some stayed there for life, and some had contact with the Russian Orthodox population. Also presented is a case study of an outstanding member of the Catholic community who, through his medical profession, had direct access to the highest authorities in the Muscovite state.
