St basil cathedral

Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow is an iconic masterpiece of Russian architecture, with its colorful onion-shaped domes, built between 1555 and 1561 by order of Ivan the Terrible.

About this subject

Saint Basil's Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin on the Moat, is located on Red Square in Moscow, Russia. It was commissioned by Tsar Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible, to commemorate the capture of the Khanate of Kazan in 1552. Construction took place from 1555 to 1561 under the supervision of architects Postnik Yakovlev and Ivan Barma (though some sources suggest they were the same person).

The building is renowned for its nine onion-shaped domes, each painted in vivid colors and distinct patterns. Contrary to popular belief, the domes were not originally colorful; the multicolored painting was added in the 17th and 18th centuries. The cathedral blends influences from Byzantine and Russian architecture, symbolizing the Heavenly Jerusalem. Its asymmetrical and ornate design contrasts with the simplicity of the neighboring Kremlin walls.

During the Soviet era, the cathedral was closed for worship and nearly demolished by Stalin, who saw it as an obstacle for military parades. Fortunately, architect Pyotr Baranovsky defended its preservation. Since 1928, it has functioned as a historical museum, undergoing restoration and being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. A popular legend claims that Ivan the Terrible blinded the architects so they could never recreate such beauty, but historians consider this a myth.

Today, the cathedral receives millions of visitors annually and is a recognizable symbol of Russia. Its image appears frequently on postcards, films, and tourist propaganda. The original structure consisted of a central church surrounded by eight side chapels, each dedicated to a saint related to Ivan's battles. The total height reaches 47.5 meters, and the interior is decorated with frescoes and icons from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many domes does Saint Basil's Cathedral have?

The building features nine onion-shaped domes: one central and eight surrounding it. Each has unique colors and patterns, added later in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Why is the cathedral called Saint Basil's?

The popular name refers to Saint Basil the Blessed, a holy fool who lived in Moscow and was buried on the site. The official name is the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin.

Did Ivan the Terrible really blind the architects?

There is no reliable historical evidence for this legend. Historians consider it a myth created later to emphasize the uniqueness of the work.