Overview:

Alexander Nevsky Lavra is a monastery complex situated in St. Petersburg, Russia. The complex is dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky, a medieval prince who defended Russia against the German and Swedish invasions in the 13th century. The monastery was established in 1710 by Tsar Peter I and it is home to some of the most impressive landmarks in the city, such as Trinity Cathedral and St. Alexander Nevsky's chapel. The complex also houses a number of ancient buildings, museums and two belltowers. The monastery is a popular tourist attraction in the city and it serves as the resting place of several notable figures, such as Russian authors Fyodor Dostoevsky and Mikhail Lermontov. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Russia
Prominent Features:

1. The Trinity Cathedral: The iconic Trinity Cathedral of Alexander Nevsky Lavra, located in the centre of the monastery complex, is the defining feature of the site and is considered to be one of the most significant examples of Russian Orthodox architecture. The cathedral was built in 1717–1722, and was designed by architect Domenico Trezzini. It is adorned with golden domes and features a number of smaller chapels. 2. St Alexander Nevsky Chapel: Built in 1746, the chapel is a monument dedicated to one of the most important figures of Russian Orthodoxy. It is located near the Trinity Cathedral and features the tomb of St Alexander Nevsky, as well as two cupolas. 3. The Holy Gates: Built in 1820 and designed by architect Auguste de Montferrand, the Holy Gates of Alexander Nevsky Lavra serves as the main entrance to the monastery grounds. It features a grand arch, along with a large bronze statue of St Alexander Nevsky himself. 4. Monument To The Military Glory: Located in the center of the monastery compound, this grand monument, erected in 1895, is dedicated to those who died defending the city of Novgorod in the Great Northern War (1700-1721). It consists of a large bronze statue of St Alexander Nevsky atop a pedestal topped with a crucifix. 5. Statue Of The Archangel Michael: Located near the Holy Gate, the bronze statue of the Archangel Michael was erected in 1739 and is the oldest outdoor sculpture in St Petersburg. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Russia.

History:

Alexander Nevsky Lavra is a historic monastery located in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The monastery was founded in 1710 by Tsar Peter the Great and dedicated to the memory of the Grand Duke Alexander Nevsky. The Lavra is one of the most important religious monuments in Russian culture and has become a symbol of St Petersburg. Alexander Nevsky was born in 1219 to Prince Yaroslav Vsevolodovich and his wife, Princess Maria Shvarnovna. He was the Prince of Novgorod, and fought many successful battles against the Teutonic Knights, earning him the nickname “Avenger of the Russians”. After his death in 1263, he was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church. To commemorate Alexander Nevsky’s great accomplishments, Tsar Peter the Great founded the Lavra in 1710. The monastery served as an important center of religious and education life in St Petersburg. Pilgrims and tourists alike have visited the Lavra and have enjoyed the churches and holy relics inside the monastery walls. During the 19th century, the Lavra was heavily damaged due to structural problems and negligence. However, in more recent years, the monastery has been undergoing gradual repairs and restorations and is one of the most visited places in St Petersburg today. Alexander Nevsky Lavra is currently a federal Russian cultural monument and contains numerous pious relics, including the relics of St Alexander Nevsky himself, as well as other local religious figures. Numerous cathedrals, churches, and monuments are located in the Lavra. Visitors to the Lavra can experience its sacred atmosphere and witness the many historical memorials contained within its walls. Visit one of the famous monuments of Russia with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Part of the Alexander Nevsky Lavra was built in 1710, making it over 300 years old. 2. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 3. The site houses several important monuments, such as bronze statues of Tsar Alexander I, Emperor Alexander III, and Prince Sergei Volkonskiy. 4. The grounds are also home to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the House of the Departed, and the 12th century Church of the Annunciation of Theotokos. 5. It was built to commemorate the defeat of Alexander Nevsky in the Battle of the Neva against the Swedes in 1240. 6. The Lavra has an underground crypt, which is home to the remains of assorted Russian rulers and dignitaries. 7. It also has a museum which contains various artifacts and relics, such as the foot throne of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. 8. During the Soviet era, the Lavra was used as a prison and inmates were sometimes tortured in one of the lavra’s cellars. 9. It is also believed that secret meetings of the Politburo were held in the lavra. 10. In recent years, the Alexander Nevsky Lavra has become an important pilgrimage site and it is visited by tens of thousands of visitors each year. One of the historical monuments of Russia, it tells the story of a bygone era