Completed in 1858 after 4 decades of meticulous construction, the church is a masterpiece of Neoclassical style. The first impression when visitors stand in front of the church is the majestic facade with rows of solid red granite pillars, each pillar weighing hundreds of tons, proving the masterful construction techniques of the 19th century.
The most brilliant highlight is the giant gold-plated dome in the center, one of the largest domes in Europe (along with St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, St. Paul's Cathedral in London and Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in Florence). The main dome of the church has a diameter of about 26m and the total construction is up to 101.5m.
To gold-plate this dome, more than 100kg of pure gold was used, helping it maintain its lasting shine through centuries of harsh weather. The truly sparkling gold layer on top of the church is not only a symbol of prosperity but also a spiritual "lighthouse", which can be seen from dozens of kilometers away.
Inside, visitors will be amazed and admire the beauty of architecture and art. The interior space is a priceless museum with thousands of square meters of sophisticated mosaics, skillful paintings by leading artists and the luxurious combination of multicolored marble, blue stone and giant stone.
Once held the position of the largest Cathedral of the Russian Tsar, the building today still retains its full attraction. For tourists who love to explore, stepping onto the observation tower on the roof is an unmissable experience. From here, the panoramic poetic beauty of St. Petersburg with the gentle Neva River and ancient palaces will fully capture your eyes.
