Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Tallinn, Estonia

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is an orthodox cathedral in Tallinn. It is built to a design by Mikhail Preobrazhensky in a typical Russian Revival style between 1894 and 1900, during the period when the country was part of the Russian Empire. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Tallinn's largest and grandest orthodox cupola cathedral. It is dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky who in 1242 won the Battle of the Ice on Lake Peipus, in the territorial waters of present-day Estonia. The late Russian patriarch, Alexis II, started his priestly ministry in the church.

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral crowns the hill of Toompea where the Estonian folk hero Kalevipoeg is said to have been buried according to a legend (there are many such legendary burial places of him in Estonia). The cathedral was built during the period of late 19th century Russification and was so disliked by many Estonians as a symbol of oppression that the Estonian authorities scheduled the cathedral for demolition in 1924, but the decision was never implemented due to lack of funds and the building's massive construction. As the USSR was officially non-religious, many churches including this cathedral were left to decline. The church has been meticulously restored since Estonia regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

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Details

Founded: 1894-1900
Category: Religious sites in Estonia
Historical period: Part of the Russian Empire (Estonia)

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Muge BN (3 months ago)
This stunning church features a distinctive eastern-style triple-domed ceiling, adding to its unique charm. While admission is free, photography is prohibited inside, explaining the absence of pictures. It's a captivating space that begs to be experienced firsthand.
Tendeso Musimwa (5 months ago)
It's not just pink; it's also utterly distinct. The interior is adorned with exquisite golden embellishments that will amaze you. I highly recommend heading there early before a crowd starts to form. Remember it's free, but no photos are allowed.
Ramya Mohana (5 months ago)
Beautiful Orthodox Church opposite to the pink parliament building Everybody is allowed to enter , no tickets needed no pictures allowed inside the church There were no Idols but only icons and devotional images Very beautiful and amazing icons on the church walls There are three doors which have separate service areas for the priest It’s a must visit in tallin. Can buy nice souvenir’s inside.
Matty B (6 months ago)
Beautiful church with an eastern-style triple-domed ceiling. The church was free to enter but you weren’t allowed to take pictures, hence why none are featured.
Mowie Oosterbroek (Mowie1235) (6 months ago)
A beautiful orthodox church, located next to the Parliament of Estonia. Taking pictures inside the church is not allowed. You can also purchase souvenirs inside of the church
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