Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Yekaterinburg

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was founded in 1814 after Russia’s victory in the War of 1812. It was dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky, a medieval prince and military leader, and planned as the largest church in the city, able to hold about 6,000 people. The stone building seen today was completed in stages. Its final design was finished in 1848 by architect M. P. Malakhov, and the main altar was consecrated in 1852.

Inside, the cathedral feels open and easy to follow. Three wide aisles run through the space, separated by thick columns that support the domes above. The central dome is high and brings in daylight, which brightens the main area. Smaller domes and curved ceilings cover the side spaces. Stone floors, lamps, and candle stands show how the interior is used during services.

The most striking feature inside is the tall iconostasis at the front. It is covered with gilded frames and painted icons arranged in traditional Orthodox rows. In the Soviet period, the church was closed and turned into a military warehouse, and the interior was divided into three floors. After it was returned to the Church in 1989, these changes were removed and the interior restored. The cathedral was reconsecrated in 2013 and is now active again, open to both worshippers and visitors.