Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is a magnificent Orthodox church with a legendary past replete with tales. On the banks of the Moscow River, its iconic gold and white architecture shine proudly.
Tsar Alexander, I ordered the construction of Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Saviour from 1839 and 1883 in memory of those who lost their lives during the Patriotic War of 1812. The Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, now Istanbul, served as inspiration for its design.
The cathedral was destroyed in 1931 as a result of the government's anti-religious campaign following the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. Due to a lack of funds and the German invasion during World War II, Stalin's ambitions to use the plot to construct the world's highest building were unsuccessful; however, the property finally found a new use. In 1958, the largest heated swimming pool in the world was inaugurated, allowing year-round usage.
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1994, the swimming pool was shut down, and a year later work started to restore the chapel to its former splendor. The brand-new Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was dedicated in 2000. The Moskva Pool lasted until 1994 when its location required a return to its original location.
After being destroyed in 1931, construction on the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour started in 1995, and it was rededicated in 2000 in a lavish ceremony officiated by Patriarch Alexis II on August 19—the Day of Transfiguration.
The huge interior is just as spectacular as the outside, hidden behind an imposing façade of marble and white stone and covered by five golden Byzantine-style domes. Magnificently designed frescoes and altars are atop floors made of polished stone and granite that are painted in vibrant hues.
The icons, pictures, and sculptures inside the church honor those who gave their lives in the Patriotic War of 1812 in keeping with its original dedication. Climbing up to the domes, which have multiple outside terraces and offer stunning panoramic views of Moscow, is one of the most fascinating things to do when visiting the cathedral.
Along with the stunning Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow is one of the most significant sites of worship in the city. It is the second tallest Orthodox temple in the world. It is worthwhile to visit, especially to take in the expansive vistas it provides. You may make the most of your time in the region of the city by visiting both on the same day because they are so close to each other!'
Duration RequiredVolkhonka, 15, Moscow 119019 Russia
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