Uspenski Cathedral

Catedral Uspenski, Helsinki, Finlandia, 2012-08-14, DD 03

Albert Edelfelt - Talvipäivä kauppatorilla, harjoitelma

The new cathedral, Helsingfors, Russia, i.e., Helsinki, Finland-LCCN2001697412

The Russian cathedral and the harbor, Helsingfors, Russia, i.e., Helsinki, Finland-LCCN2001697409

Ensimmäinen maailmansota - N1824 (hkm.HKMS000005-00000174)

Uspenskin katedraali vappuna 2020-04-30

Uspenski Cathedral (Finnish: Uspenskin katedraali, Russian: Успенский собор) is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral located in Helsinki, Finland. It is dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, which is known as the Assumption of Mary in Western Christianity. The cathedral is the main church of the Orthodox Church of Finland's Diocese of Helsinki.

History[edit | edit source]

The Uspenski Cathedral was designed by the Russian architect Alexey Gornostaev and was completed in 1868, after his death. The construction of the cathedral was part of the Russification of Finland during the period when Finland was an autonomous part of the Russian Empire. The cathedral was built on a hillside on the Katajanokka peninsula, providing a prominent view over the city.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

The Uspenski Cathedral is a prime example of Russian Revival architecture. It features thirteen golden domes, which symbolize Jesus Christ and the Twelve Apostles. The exterior is made of red brick, and the interior is adorned with numerous icons, frescoes, and chandeliers. The cathedral's design is heavily influenced by the Church of the Twelve Apostles in the Moscow Kremlin.

Significance[edit | edit source]

The Uspenski Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. It serves as a significant symbol of the historical ties between Finland and Russia. The cathedral is an important site for the Orthodox Christian community in Finland and attracts numerous visitors and tourists each year.