Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki, Finland

Uspenski Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos (the Virgin Mary). The cathedral was designed by the Russian architect Alexey Gornostaev (1808–1862), but it was built after his death in 1862-1868. It was made of bricks brought mainly from Bomarsund fortress in Åland which had been destroyed during the Crimean War in 1854.

Uspenski cathedral represents the Slavonic architecture, but the interior has a strong Byzantine influence. The cathedral has also several valuable icons. With its golden cupolas and redbrick facade, the cathedral is one of the clearest symbols of the Russian impact on Finnish history. It’s very popular tourist attraction with half million annual visits.

User Reviews

Ed Surash (2 years ago)
It’s a beautiful cathedral which was constructed with recycle bricks due to budget restrains. Although it’s modest size, the cathedral is fitted very elegantly with beautiful paintings and decorations. Be mindful not to use your camera flash inside as there are many valuable artwork. Give yourself a minimum of 30 minutes to enjoy this spectacular building.

Izabela Boban (3 years ago)
Lovely church, the outside is more impressive than the inside to be honest but going in have us a peaceful and calming feeling, which cannot be achieved by every church you visit. Coming from Romania, where churches are very detailed and overly decorated on the inside, this one felt simple but made with a good taste.

Golnoosh Fanaian (3 years ago)
It was a very beautiful Cathedral both inside and outside. It was about a 5-10 minute walk from the main Helsinki Cathedral, but worth the walk for the view. The inside was filled with the smell of incense for anyone with a sensitivity.

JérÔme Clarysse (3 years ago)
Beautiful cathedral (orthodox) There are some works… but we can see the beauty of the monument. Beautiful painting and orthodox art. Entrance free.

Evan Smithers (3 years ago)
A beautiful Russian cathedral that you can see from many different parts of Helsinki due to the hill it’s built on. The architecture is also quite unique compared to other buildings in the city so it’s a refreshing visit. The inside is equally as beautiful and if you have the chance I’d recommend. There was a service going on while I was there so only got a bit of a glimpse from the side.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright Following Hadrian

Historic Site of the week

Walls of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.

Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.

Uspenski Cathedral

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Walls of Constantinople