Saint Basil's Cathedral: History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
Located in the Red Square in Moscow, Russia, Saint Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Built between 1555 and 1561, it was originally known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat, and was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. The cathedral is now a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.
History of Saint Basil’s Cathedral
The cathedral was built by two Russian architects, Postnik Yakovlev and Barma, and is considered to be a masterpiece of Russian architecture. It is made up of nine churches, each dedicated to a different saint. The central church is dedicated to the Intercession of the Virgin. The other eight churches are dedicated to Saints Basil the Blessed, Alexander Svirsky, Varlaam Khutinskiy, Dmitry Solunsky, German, Sergius of Radonezh, Uspensky, and Nikolai.
The cathedral was built in a style known as the “tent” style, which is characterized by its onion domes and brightly colored exterior. The walls of the cathedral are decorated with intricate carvings and frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
The cathedral was the site of several important events in Russian history, including the coronation of Tsar Alexis I in 1645 and the funeral of Ivan the Terrible in 1584. It also served as a place of worship for the Russian Orthodox Church until the 1917 Revolution.
Amazing Facts About Saint Basil’s Cathedral
Saint Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Here are some interesting facts about the cathedral:
• The cathedral was originally known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat.
• The cathedral was built between 1555 and 1561.
• The cathedral is made up of nine churches, each dedicated to a different saint.
• The cathedral is decorated with intricate carvings and frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
• The cathedral was the site of several important events in Russian history, including the coronation of Tsar Alexis I in 1645 and the funeral of Ivan the Terrible in 1584.
• The cathedral is a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.
Things to Do at Saint Basil’s Cathedral
Saint Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. Here are some of the things you can do when visiting the cathedral:
• Take a guided tour: Take a guided tour of the cathedral to learn more about its history and architecture.
• Admire the exterior: The exterior of the cathedral is decorated with intricate carvings and frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
• Visit the interior: Visit the interior of the cathedral to admire the beautiful frescoes and icons.
• Attend a service: Attend a service at the cathedral to experience the traditional Russian Orthodox liturgy.
• Take photos: Take photos of the exterior and interior of the cathedral to capture the beauty of this iconic landmark.
• Visit the museum: Visit the museum located in the basement of the cathedral to learn more about its history.
• Shop for souvenirs: Shop for souvenirs at the gift shop located in the basement of the cathedral.
Saint Basil’s Cathedral is an iconic landmark in Moscow and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. From its impressive architecture to its fascinating history, it is a place that will leave you in awe. So, be sure to add it to your list of places to visit in Moscow.