Description of the attraction
The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin was erected in the 12th year of the 19th century through the efforts of the Greek community living in the city on the site of a wooden church founded in 57th year of the 18th century in honor of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God and consecrated on September 25, 66, in the 18th century in honor of Tsar Constantine. The construction of the church took seven years. The founders of the temple were Greek settlers. It was then called the Greco-Vladimir Church. The bell tower of the cathedral was built in the 28 year of the same century. The interior of the cathedral has preserved murals dating from the early 20th century. The cathedral is distinguished by the fact that in its entire history it is the only one of all the churches in the city that has never interrupted its activity.
The cathedral was built in the neoclassical style. Rectangular in plan, one-domed, with a semicircular apse, the church on the southern and northern facades is highlighted by four columns with a Corinthian portico and triangular pediments. The Doric portico on the western façade is now glazed. The structure is surrounded by a stucco frieze around the perimeter. The wall plane is divided into two tiers with the help of a "belt", on which are superimposed rusticated blades dividing the facade vertically. The hemispherical dome, crowning a high cylindrical drum, is marked by a clear rhythm of windows, alternating blank walls, which are enriched with semi-columns.
The interior design of the cathedral is dominated by spatial freedom. The premises of the nave are designed in the form of a gallery; a colonnade with a cylindrical vault and striking formwork leads to the altar. The second row has cross-ribbed vaults. Many outstanding people of various periods found eternal rest near the church walls, including the only son of the famous Russian military leader Mikhail Kutuzov. The icons of the 17th century, as well as the relics of saints, are also kept here.
