Dormition Cathedral, Moscow

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Dormition Cathedral
Успенский Собор
Location	Moscow, Russia
Denomination	Russian Orthodox Church
History
Status	Cathedral
Architecture
Architect(s)	Aristotele Fioravanti
Style	Russian
Groundbreaking	1475
Administration
Diocese	Moscow Patriarchate

The Dormition Cathedral (Russian: Успенский Собор ), also known as the Assumption Cathedral, is a prominent Russian Orthodox cathedral located in the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia. It is dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, which refers to the Assumption of Mary into heaven.

History

The Dormition Cathedral was commissioned by Ivan III in the late 15th century. The original structure was built between 1326 and 1327, but it was later demolished to make way for a grander building. The current cathedral was constructed between 1475 and 1479 under the supervision of the Italian architect Aristotele Fioravanti. The cathedral was consecrated in 1479 and has since played a central role in the religious and political life of Russia.

Architecture

The Dormition Cathedral is a quintessential example of Russian architecture with its five domes, symbolizing Jesus Christ and the Four Evangelists. The interior is adorned with frescoes and icons, many of which date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The cathedral's iconostasis, a wall of icons and religious paintings, is one of the most significant features of the interior.

Significance

The Dormition Cathedral has been the site of many important events in Russian history. It was the main church of the Moscow Patriarchate and served as the coronation site for Russian tsars. The cathedral also housed the relics of several saints and was a major pilgrimage site.

Related Pages

• Kremlin
• Russian Orthodox Church
• Ivan III
• Aristotele Fioravanti
• Assumption of Mary
• Moscow Patriarchate

See Also

• Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
• Saint Basil's Cathedral
• Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius
• Church of the Intercession on the Nerl