St basil cathedral

St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow is an icon of Russian architecture and a symbol of the Kremlin and Red Square.

About this subject

St. Basil's Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin Mary on the Moat, is located on Red Square in Moscow, Russia. It was commissioned by Tsar Ivan IV (Ivan the Terrible) between 1555 and 1561 to commemorate the conquest of the Khanate of Kazan. The cathedral consists of nine independent chapels, each topped with a colorful onion dome, the highest reaching 46 meters. The unique design blends elements of Byzantine, Russian, and Asian architecture, reflecting the cultural diversity of the Russian Empire.

Unlike many European cathedrals, St. Basil's is not a single building but a group of churches interconnected by galleries and passageways. Each dome has a distinct pattern and color, ranging from green, blue, yellow, red, and gold. A popular legend claims that Ivan the Terrible ordered the architects blinded so they could never build anything equally beautiful, though historians consider this unlikely.

The cathedral was originally painted white with gold domes, acquiring its vibrant colors only in the 17th and 18th centuries. During the Soviet era, it nearly was demolished by Stalin, but architect Pyotr Baranovsky opposed and was imprisoned in protest. After World War II, it became a state museum and underwent extensive restorations. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Russia's most visited tourist attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of the colors of St. Basil's Cathedral?

The vibrant dome colors have no fixed symbolic meaning; they were added over centuries for aesthetic reasons. Before the 17th century, the cathedral was mostly white with gold domes.

How many domes does St. Basil's Cathedral have?

The cathedral has nine onion domes, one for each chapel. The central dome is the tallest, at 46 meters.

Is St. Basil's Cathedral still used for religious services?

Since 1928, it functions as a state museum. Religious services are held only on special occasions, such as the feast of the Intercession of the Virgin.