Cathedral of the Nativity

Suzdal, Russia

The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Suzdal is one of the eight White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal. One of the most complex monuments of Russian medieval architecture. It was originally constructed during the reign of Vladimir II Monomakh during the late 11th century.

The Cathedral of the Nativity is surrounded by a ring of earthen walls in an oxbow of Kamenka River. It is notable for being the first city cathedral not built for the exclusive use of the knyaz or his relatives. The cathedral contains the remains of a son of Yuri Dolgoruki, knyazes of the Shuisky family and others.

The cathedral was originally built during the reign of Vladimir II Monomakh in 1102. In 1222, on the orders of Yuri II of Vladimir the dilapidated building was taken down and replaced by a new one built of white stone. Thus it remained until 1528, when the white stone walls above the arcade are replaced by brick. In the 17th century, the previously three-domed cathedral was given five domes and the interior was partially repainted. Thus the cathedral survives to this day with numerous changes throughout its history, both in the exterior, and the interior, where the wall frescoes are of 13th-, 15th- and 17th-century origin. The cathedral has also endured fire several times.

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Founded: 1102
Category: Religious sites in Russia

Rating

4.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

CK Cheong (15 months ago)
Also known as The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Theotokos. Unusual and unique facade coupled with an exquisite and elaborate interior. Inside the church was well decorated with intricate renovation and artifacts. Originally constructed in 1102 and was destroyed and re-constructed many times, this is a church with significant history. Definitely worth a visit
Oleg Naumov (5 years ago)
Archiereus Chambers built in the end of XV century as the residence of local Metropolitan is on the left and Church of the Holy Nativity of Virgin Mary the Mother of God built in 1222-1225 is on the right. Church saw Mongolian invasion and was looted when Mongols captured Suzdal in February of 1238. You are going to find golden gates inside of this church. Visitors are allowed to take non commercial photo without flash light and tripod.
Anthony Bachtiar (5 years ago)
Рождественский Собор In English, it is called the Cathedral of the Nativity. This is a historic building that was originally used as a cathedral of Orthodox Catholics. This building is located within the church building complex and other buildings. Located in the city of Suzdal, which can be reached via the city of Vladimir by the city bus for 45 minutes. The rest in the city you can visit this place on foot or use the Yandex online taxi service. Note: To be able to order a taxi online Yandex you can download the application on your cell phone. This place is now a beautiful museum with high art paintings on the walls and ceiling. At a glance from the front of this building looks like an ordinary old building with white paint that sometimes looks dull but beauty lies behind the dull wall. To get inside you have 2 ticket options, just walk around the complex and see the building from the outside yard, including the wooden museum. Or you want to buy an all-access ticket to enter the building. There is also a clean toilet inside the complex but you have to pay to enter and there is also a souvenir shop.
Nenad Obradovic (7 years ago)
Suzdal it's an incredible place...
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