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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User Reviews

G Mac (7 months ago)
An amazing building. This orthodox church has lavish, decorations, wonderful icons, and beautiful architecture . There are ladies constantly cleaning the building and the artworks and many devotional people praying and lighting candles. A beautiful place to visit.

Cyber Desman (7 months ago)
An absolutely beautiful structure that is on the top of the historical town hill. Take a look inside and you will not be disappointed. It is a very historical place, it was built in memory of the survival of Alexander III of Russia in the train disaster. Later on, Nicholas II would visit the cathedral. The first patriarch of post-Soviet Russia Alexy II was also part of this church.

Ross Daniels (8 months ago)
Our first morning walk up Toompea Hill and we find Alexander Nevsky Cathedral which is very impressive. Built between 1894 and 1900, it was designed by Mikhail Preobrazhensky in the Russian Revival style and is is dedicated to Alexander Nevsky, a grand prince of Kiev who became a saint after winning the Battle of the Ice in 1242. It has a richly decorated interior, including mosaics and icons, and its eleven bells, the largest of which weighs about 16 ton.

Mathias Forrisdahl (10 months ago)
Absolutely stunning church right next to the parliament. Its on a hill overlooking the city and has nearby refreshment stands and nice parks to enjoy the view. Be sure to go in if its open, as it is free and beautiful. However, no photos allowed inside.

Hilarion Martinez (11 months ago)
Spectacular interior and towers above the city. There is a significant population in Tallinn and this is evidence of their presence & wealth. There was even the only Rolls Royce parked in front of the church! There is a second Russian Orthodox Church near the town square. Go see that one too if time permits.

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