St. Petersburg has always welcomed various architectural, cultural and religious trends. Here, next to the Orthodox church, you can see a Lutheran church or a Muslim mosque.
Religious architecture is as popular in St. Petersburg as palaces and museum complexes. In the temples and churches of the northern capital, excursions and thematic events are held daily.
St. Isaac's and Kazan Cathedrals are within walking distance from the Teatralnaya Square Hotel. We are sure that you know everything about them, so we have prepared for you a selection of no less popular monuments of religious culture.
St. Petersburg Cathedral Mosque
The majestic building of the mosque rises among the other buildings in the area of the Peter and Paul Fortress. If you went on an excursion to Hare Island, then be sure to look at the Cathedral Mosque.
The Islamic community was born together with the construction of St. Petersburg. However, it was only by the end of the 19th century that the mufti received permission to build this mosque.
Basilica of St. Catherine of Alexandria
St. Catherine's Basilica is considered one of the largest Catholic churches in St. Petersburg. Its construction began under Anna Ioanovna, and ended 45 years later under Catherine II.
The temple is located on Nevsky Prospekt and is the only one with the status of a “basilica" in Russia. The building is decorated with columns, modest stucco and arches on the sides. There are statues on the roof, next to the dome.
Buddhist Temple
The first Buddhists, like Muslims, appeared in St. Petersburg during the construction of the Peter and Paul Fortress. These were the Volga Kalmyks, who were sent to build fortifications.
Gradually, the Buddhist community increased, but the construction of the temple was seriously considered only at the beginning of the 20th century. The representative of the Dalai Lama in Russia received permission, and by 1915 a temple "Datsan Gunzechoinei" appeared in the city.
Chesma Church
The airy, white-pink church building differs significantly from other Orthodox churches in St. Petersburg. The Chesma Church was especially loved by Catherine II and every year attended a service here on Shrovetide. A separate place was prepared for the Empress under a canopy of red velvet.
I am glad that all religious buildings were preserved during the Soviet period. The Bolsheviks did not destroy the temples, realizing their cultural value, but used them for other needs.
Most of the interesting temples are hidden on Nevsky Prospekt. They do not stand out among the other buildings of the street, but interesting excursions are waiting for you inside. You can get to Nevsky Prospekt from the Theatre Square Hotel on foot or by any public transport. Book your stay on the hotel's website to enjoy the historical part of the city already from the room window.
