In Smolensk and Smolensk Region one can visit a lot of churches, temples and monasteries built in different epochs. And the majestic Cathedral of Assumption is the most famous sight of Smolensk.
The Cathedral of Assumption stands on the top of one of the highest Smolensk hills and can be seen from many parts of the city. It was built in several stages from 1676 to 1740. For ten years a team of wood-carvers worked at the iconostasis of the Assumption Cathedral and created an outstanding work of art of the 18th century. If you see it once in your life, you’ll never forget its majestic beauty.
In the 12-13th centuries there were more than 30 temples in Smolensk. Three churches of the 12 century have remained in Smolensk up to now. The Church of St. Peter and Paul is the most ancient of them. It is situated on the right bank of the Dnieper River. Two other churches – the Church of St. John the Theologian and the Church of the Archangel Michael surprise visitors with the exquisiteness of the forms and the richness of the inner decoration.
The Church was built in 1900 – 1905 in settlement Talashkino - in the estate of famous patron M.K.Tenisheva. World-famous artist N.K.Rerih was invited to paint the church. He decorated it from 1908 till 1914. The Church of Holy Spirit is a model of unique ecclesiastical painting.
The Catholic Church is one of the most interesting architectural monuments in Smolensk. It diversifies view of the city and mystifies local people. And a polish cemetery around it adds to the enigma.
Spaso-Preobrazhensky Church is located in Revvoensovet Street. It is a stone baroque church, built in 1766 by a priest F.Shupinskij and a college assessor S.Korsakov.
Varvara’s Church, built in the 18th century, is located to the west of St. Peter and Paul’s Church. It is a two-storey rectangular building with a bell tower. Varvara’s Church is a place where the Christian youth of the city have meetings.
The Church of Nikolay the miracle-maker, built in 1748, was slightly altered in the late 19th century. This stone church is one of the most beautiful baroque monuments in Smolensk. A stone bell tower was annexed to the church in 1776.
It is the youngest church in Smolensk. The church was founded in 1994 in Popovka district of Smolensk. Now it beautifully decorates this part of the city.
