The Church on the Spilled Blood is one of Petersburg’s symbols. Is it not, however, the only religious, architectural beauty of this city. If you want to visit a few more churches, other than the ones in the historic heart of Petersburg, I can spare a few advices for you. These are the most interesting churches to visit in St. Petersburg.
Originally build in Baroque style in 1743, the Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Saviour burned in 1825 and was rebuilt according to Classicism. It is one of the few churches which remained open throughout the Revolution, and even hosted an air-raid shelter in the basement during the Siege of Lenindrad. Today it’s free to visit, it has just finished renovation, and is probably waiting for you to visit!
The Smolny Cathedral’s – and its designer’s, the Italian architect Rastrelli – greatest misfortune was Elizabeth of Russia’s death, in 1762. Her successor, Catherine II, disliked the style, and thus it could not be completed. Even without its planned huge bell tower and interiors up to the standard, it is impressively majestic. It also gives a fantastic view on St. Petersburg from its towers.
St. Vladimir’s Cathedral had a troubled beginning. The construction started in 1708 and finished in 1789 after many afterthoughts on designs and consecrations, and a few misadventures – among which the ever-present fire. The last – and current – version, a five-domed structure, is a beauty merging elements from both Baroque and Neo-Classicism.
Surrounded by trees, as if it were on Thailand, this splendid 1915 Buddhist Temple is the northernmost in Russia. It went through hard times as well during the Soviet years – well, not it, but the lamas living in St. Petersburg and serving here. The outside is beautiful, but are the mosaics inside which are really remarkable.
The most recent of the buildings I want to recommend you today is the Saint Petersburg Mosque. Completed in 1921, it was, at the time, the largest of Europe. Designed after Samarkand’s Gur-e Amir, it can host 5 thousand worshippers at a time, just to give you an idea of the dimensions. Just be careful not to watch too intensively the extremely colorful insides of the portals: I find them a bit psychedelic.
Which St. Petersburg church do you like the most? Let us know in the comment section below!
Posted by Alessandro M.
Alessandro M. is currently an Intern at Liden & Denz, where he also studies Russian. He will keep you updated on cultural events, curiosities, fun facts and much more though his articles!
Students will be happy to learn that the Russian Government has today announced plans to make Russian language easier in an effort to simplify greater international engagement. …
In a previous post, we revealed that Russians don't really say “na zdarovje” when they toast. While the phrase has been popularised in English language media – and a lot of Russians will nod politely and clink glasses with you if you use it – it’s not something a native speaker would ever…
Improve your Russian while working as an expat? Mission possible! …
What could be a better way for Russian immersion than reading, especially when you read the books that you find interesting and that can give you a better idea of the culture of Russia? Co-founder of Liden & Denz, Walter Denz shares his experience on how reading Russian literature can improve your…
When people think about fashion I would bet they associated with places like Paris, Milan or New York. It’s undeniable that fashion is a big thing in those places. A place to visit by any fashionista. Nonetheless, there are many talented designers in Russia worth discovering. If you are passionate…
If you are afraid winter in Russia would be too much to stand – only four hours of daylight, temperature reaching -30 degrees Celsius, slippery snow everywhere – just keep in mind that, despite the minuses, there are countless things you could do in winter here. Ice skating being one of the most…
You may have noticed that Russians are highly superstitious people, and incorporate little rituals into everyday life to influence their fate. One common ritual is «загадать желание» (to make a wish). And what better place to do this than in St Petersburg, a city of magical beauty,…
Get a Quote
Online test
Request Info
More
