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Located on the historic Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Saint Basil) is not only an impressive architectural feat but also a profound symbol of Russia's cultural and historical identity.
Introduction to St. Basil’s Cathedral
In 1561, St. Basil’s Cathedral was constructed under the orders of Ivan the Terrible to commemorate his victory in the Russo-Kazan War. Unlike traditional Western churches, it does not feature a vast open space. Initially, the cathedral comprised nine chapels, each housed under one of its iconic domes.
The cathedral stood as the tallest structure in Moscow until 1600, when the Ivan the Great Bell Tower within the Kremlin was rebuilt. One of its unique features is that every side appears to be the main entrance, ensuring that visitors and worshippers feel welcomed from any direction. There is no distinct back or side; every angle presents a front-facing view.
The cathedral acquired its current name in the late 16th century after a beloved saint named Basil was interred in its tenth chapel. Over time, this chapel became the most visited by worshippers. The Chapel of St. Basil is the only section of the cathedral that remains heated throughout the year.
The history of the cathedral
From the Chapel of St. Basil, visitors descend to the basement of St. Basil’s Cathedral. During the reign of Ivan the Terrible, this space served as the tsar’s treasury. Later, wealthy Muscovites also stored their riches here. In the Soviet era, when the cathedral became a museum, the basement was repurposed as administrative offices.
Historians remain uncertain about the exact identity of the cathedral’s builders—whether they were Russian or Italian. However, most experts agree that the cathedral’s construction would not have been possible without Italian expertise.
Throughout the existence of St. Basil’s Cathedral, the decorative motifs on its walls have undergone numerous changes. From frescoes created during Ivan the Terrible’s reign to vibrant floral patterns executed in oil paint.
Among the cathedral’s relics are shackles similar to those worn by St. John. The eleventh chapel, built in 1672, is dedicated to him. These shackles weigh several dozen kilograms. It is believed that St. John only removed them shortly before his death in 1589.
The 11th dome of St. Basil’s Cathedral is a bell tower constructed in the 1680s. In 1990, bells dating from the 17th to 19th centuries were reinstalled in the tower. After a long period of silence, the cathedral’s bells once again rang out over Red Square.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnFebruary 29, 2024
