Saint Basil’s cathedral

Saint Basil's Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, is one of Russia's most iconic landmarks. Located in Red Square, Moscow, the cathedral is famous for its vibrant, colorful onion domes and intricate architecture. It is a symbol of Russia and its unique cultural heritage.

Early History and Construction

  • Architects: The cathedral was designed by Russian architects Barma and Postnik Yakovlev, although some legends suggest they were actually the same person. The architects combined traditional Russian wooden architecture with elements of Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles, creating a design that was unlike anything seen before.

  • Original Design: The original design of the cathedral consisted of eight chapels arranged around a central church, with each chapel representing a different assault on Kazan. These chapels are connected by galleries and topped with onion domes. The central church, dedicated to the Intercession of the Virgin Mary, was the tallest and most prominent structure in the complex.

Modern Era and UNESCO Recognition

  • 1990: Saint Basil's Cathedral was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Kremlin and Red Square ensemble, recognizing its historical and cultural significance.

  • Present Day: Today, Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of Moscow's most visited tourist attractions. It remains a symbol of Russia, admired for its unique architecture and rich history. Although it primarily functions as a museum, it is occasionally used for Russian Orthodox services.

Saint Basil's Cathedral stands as a testament to Russia's rich architectural and religious heritage, and its colorful domes continue to capture the imagination of people around the world.

Year: 2016 | Equipment: Canon EOS REBEL T2i