NameSt. Basil's Cathedral Architectural StyleRussian Orthodox SignificanceIt is a symbol of Russia's architectural tradition and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Type of StructureReligious LocationRed Square, Moscow, Russia

Architecture

Cultural and Religious Significance

Legacy

Fun Facts

References

History

St. Basil's Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, is located in Moscow's Red Square. It was built from 1555 to 1561 on orders from Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the capture of the Khanate of Kazan. The cathedral was consecrated on 12 July 1561. Over time, the Cathedral has become a symbol of Russia's rich history and cultural heritage.

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Architecture

The Cathedral boasts of a unique and vibrant architectural style that is reflective of the spirit of Russia. It stands at a height of 65 meters and is built in the shape of a flame of a bonfire rising into the sky. The Cathedral comprises of eight chapels surrounding a ninth, central chapel, which is dedicated to the Intercession. Each chapel is crowned by a unique, colourful onion dome. The flamboyant design and the colourful exterior make it one of the most recognized landmarks globally. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a labyrinth of galleries winding from chapel to chapel and level to level.

Cultural and Religious Significance

St. Basil's Cathedral is more than just an architectural marvel. It holds great cultural and religious significance in Russia. As a religious edifice, it is dedicated to the Holy Trinity and St. Basil the Blessed, a 'holy fool' highly revered in Russia. The cathedral is also a symbol of Russian national pride and resilience. Despite threats of demolition during the Soviet era, it has stood the test of time and remains an iconic symbol of Russia's cultural and historical identity.

Legacy

Today, St. Basil's Cathedral is considered one of the greatest architectural treasures of Russia and is recognized worldwide as a symbol of Moscow and Russia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is celebrated for its distinct architecture, rich history, and cultural significance. Its image is recurrent in popular culture, literature, and cinematography, reinforcing its status as an enduring symbol of Russia's cultural heritage.

Fun Facts

Despite its official name being the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, it is most commonly known as St. Basil's Cathedral globally. It is occasionally mistaken for the Kremlin, another historic landmark in Moscow. The Cathedral's vibrant colours were not added until the 17th century; before that, the domes were likely gold or perhaps even white.