Overview:

The Church of the Savior in Smolensk is an important symbol of the spiritual life of the city. This beautiful Orthodox Church was built at the end of the 17th century and has stood as a witness to the changing fortunes of Smolensk over the centuries. As one of the oldest churches in Russia, it contains a great deal of history and is a great place to learn more about the spiritual culture of Russia. Its original construction dates back to 1737 and it is an excellent example of traditional Russian Orthodox architecture. The church is dedicated to the Transfiguration of our Lord, and contains various historic artworks. Inside, visitors can view original Russian iconography and beautiful frescoes, as well as a relic of St. Alexander Nevsky. The church is a major landmark in Smolensk and continues to be a vibrant center of worship for local people. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Russia
Prominent Features:

1. Twin domes of the Church of the Savior in Smolensk: The Church of the Savior in Smolensk is easily recognizable by its two grandiose domes which are located on its roof. These domes have distinct blue and gold colors which help them stand out from the surrounding architecture. 2. The church bell tower: The bell tower of the Church of the Savior in Smolensk consists of a large metal cathead which is decorated with 16 bells. This tower is often used by the city’s residents as a popular attraction to admire the city’s skyline from its top. 3. Unique double headed eagle sculptures: The façade of the Church of the Savior in Smolensk is adorned with two majestic golden double headed eagle sculptures which are perched on both sides of the main entrance and instantly capture the attention of any onlooker. 4. The Dormition Iconostasis: Inside the church, visitors can admire the beautiful Dormition Iconostasis (or Wooden Screen) which is made of intricate carved wood. This iconostasis divides the nave into two halves and adds to the church’s overall grandeur. 5. Gilded ceiling: The ceiling of the Church of the Savior in Smolensk is notable for its detailed gilded décor which was painted in the baroque style. Furthermore, this ceiling is adorned with life-size portraits of the saints which give it a unique and ethereal feel. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Russia.

History:

The Church of the Savior in the city of Smolensk is a monument of 17th century architecture and one of the city’s most treasured religious heritage sites. It is part of Smolensk’s Uspensky Monastery, which was first established in 1582 on the orders of Grand Duke Vasily III. The church was built in 1604 and underwent several renovations over the centuries. The original three-tiered bell tower that was part of the monastery was destroyed in 1825 as part of the fortress reduction works. The church sustained severe damage during World War II as Smolensk was heavily bombed by Germany. After the war, the Soviet government took control of the crumbling remains of the monastery and the Church of the Savior. The church was eventually restored in the 1970s and returned to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1992. In 1997, the church was declared a cultural heritage site by the Russian Federation and was consecrated in 2000 by the Archbishop of Smolensk. Today, the Church of the Savior remains an important centerpiece of the Uspensky Monastery and is a popular tourist attraction for both visitors and locals. Every year, during the Great Lent period, it hosts an annual service which attracts thousands of believers. It is also widely known for its gilded icons and its intricate architecture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Russia with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Church of the Savior in Smolensk is one of the largest churches in Russia, with a total area of over 13,000 square meters. 2. It was founded in 1666 and is one of the oldest churches still standing in the city of Smolensk. 3. The architecture of the church is Baroque-style and built from brick, with white-stone-plaster decorations. 4. The bell-tower is crowned with seven domes and is 74 meters high. 5. Inside the church is a large iconostasis made from marble, along with seven large polychrome painted icons of the Saviour, the Mother of God and the Saints, which are believed to be the work of an icon painter from Moscow. 6. Church of the Savior in Smolensk is a unique monument of national importance, being subject of the State Protection Program. 7. In 1812, during the Napoleonic war, the church was destroyed by fire, when French forces entered Smolensk. 8. It was rebuilt and rededicated in 1854 and then restored again in 1948, 1960 and 1996-1999. 9. The Church remains an active religious center of the city, with a daily service routine and a range of functions such as baptisms, marriages, and funerals. 10. The Church of the Savior in Smolensk is also a popular sightseeing spot for tourists visiting the city. One of the historical monuments of Russia, it tells the story of a bygone era