Cathedral in the simplest term means a Christian church. A church that contains the seat of bishop, so serves as the central church of diocese, conference or episcopate is a cathedral. So it is a sacred place with administrative roles and position. Russia is a country with numerous cathedrals in different parts of the country. Some of them are quite old with lot of historical significance. One of them is cathedral of St. Sophia. Built between 1045 and 1050, this is said to be the oldest church building in Russia. This 1000 years old church has lot of old elements of its own for visitors to see. Let us see more about Cathedral of Saint Sophia in Novgorod.
Cathedral of Saint Sophia is a 38 meter high, 5 domed stone building. It was built between 1045 and 1050. It was built to replace an oaken cathedral and is said to be the oldest church in Russia with exception of two churches Arkhyz and Shoana which are the oldest building of any kind still in use in Russia. If it is so old then it is bound to have its story. So the story is that cathedral was built by Vladimir of Novgorod as an expression of gratitude to the people of Novgorod for their support of Vladimir’s father Yaroslav in his struggle for Kiev. This 5 domed cathedral had replaced 13 domes wooden church built in 989 and had the importance of being the main temple of the town. Though the name of the cathedral is St. Sophia, however the cathedral was not named after any female saints of that name. The name comes actually from the Greek for wisdom and so Cathedral of St. Sophia is dedicated to Holy wisdom of God. This cathedral holds significance as city’s great necropolis, the burial place of prominence in the history of the city which includes several princes and posadniks and some over 30 bishops archbishops and metropolitan of Novgorod. The cathedral of St. Sophia did see damages through the years because of fire on few occasions. However few things preserved. One of those preserved things is amazing pictures of Saints Constantine and Helena which was made using unique techniques by an ancient artist.
The Cathedral of Saint Sophia can easily be said to be one of the most important monuments of ancient architecture in Russia. The cathedral was built some 1000 years ago and reflects the enormity of its proportions and the huge impact of it on the life of people of Novgorod and ancient Russia. Throughout the centuries, this cathedral saw allot and influenced the life of Novgorod. In the early years this place was used as burial place for the princes which later on became a ceremonial and spiritual center during 12th-15th centuries. From the outside the cathedral looks beautiful with its 5 domes and interiors of the cathedral are beautiful with series of interesting and ancient door and religious icons. In fact first or the oldest icon is said to be that of icon of Mother of God of the Sign who saved Novgorod as per the legends in 1169 from the attack of Suzdalians. Wall paintings are amazing. Frescoes of Saint Constantine are unique. This Russian church is still beautifully maintained and is place of peace. The cathedral has kept its orthodox character.
So the cathedral of St. Sophia is a depiction of ancient Novgorod’s and Russia’s life and religion reflected through its wall paintings, frescoes and icons in the interiors of the cathedral. It is a real masterpiece of Russia’s ancient architecture. If you see the architectural beauty of this cathedral then you must say that how come it took only 5 years to complete this masterpiece. So in a sense it shows the brilliance of architects of that time. Now there are many features of St. Sophia which are worth seeing and exploring. So it is highly advisable that if you happen to take a Russia Travel Package then do go for visiting the Cathedral of St. Sophia in Novgorod.
Explore Russia Tour Packages with Dook International, check our Russia holiday packages as below - Moscow and St-petersburg 4 nights Moscow and St-petersburg 5 nightsTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Uzbekistan is a hidden gem of Central Asia. This emerging tourist destination is home to stunning ar...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Central Asia consists of stans mainly These countries are Kazakhstan Uzbekistan Kyrgyzstan Turkmenis...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Uzbekistan may be synonymous with awe-inspiring Islamic architecture, wealthy history, or natural be...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
If you are in Georgia or traveling to this country, you don’t have to think about food because you w...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Georgia is a land of stunning landscapes, welcoming culture, incredible mountain ranges, vibrant cit...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kazakhstan’s cultural richness, vast deserts, geographical diversity, stunning attractions, and awe-...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Loaded with pretty places, lovely landscapes, impressive historical sights, cultural landmarks, and...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kazakhstan, the ninth-largest country, covers vast areas of treasures that are yet to be discovered....
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Georgia is a place of wonders, and nothing can deny the fact that there are so many things to enjoy....
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Food is the gist of every vacation. No trip can be fully enjoyed without trying the delicious cuisin...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
There isn't much that South Africa can't provide visitors with The Kruger's private reserves offer t...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kyrgyzstan is an unmatched destination that you must visit. Before heading here, you should check ou...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Every vacation’s last goal is to shop for something to take back home. No matter where you are trave...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan This beautiful city is located on the shores of the Caspian.....
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Batumi, the Georgian capital, is a place of many things. It is a leading holiday destination in Geor...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kyrgyzstan is a place of wonders, and its cuisines are one of them. Kyrgyzstan is known for its noma...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Kazakhstan has always captivated tourists with its spectacular landscapes, surreal attractions, swar...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Dubai is known for many things, and shopping is the most prominent among them all. Shopaholics can e...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Russia has so much in its bucket for travelers. And unique shopping experience is no exception to th...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
No matter where you are heading for a vacation, bringing gifts home is a loving practice. Your famil...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
No trip is complete without shopping You want to bring something back with you from your trip that.....
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
One of the most captivating places on earth is the African continent It's no doubt difficult to sele...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Uzbekistan is a country rich in cultural scenes, Silk Road history, stunning architecture, and vibra...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Egypt is an iconic tourist destination that offers an unmatched mix of ancient wonders, rich culture...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Sapa, a town in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, is one of the most famous trekking destinations in the...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Everything about Azerbaijan is extraordinary, including its culinary heritage. Azerbaijan cuisine se...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Besides the beaches and rice terraces, Bali has a mouthwatering culinary heritage. Bali food scenes...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Greece, the dreamy wonderland, is among the most beautiful destinations to visit in the world. Every...
Read MoreTravel Admin
Coments (8)
Russia, the grandest country on the map, has many elegant and beautiful cities radiating with vibran...
Read MoreHassle-free booking and best price guaranteed
24/7 support available
Hand-picked tours & activities
Free travel insurance