Major Attractions

Architecture - Assumption Cathedral

The magnificent Assumption Cathedral is what you see first when you enter Cathedral Square-and when you approach the City from the east. The original cathedral, with its paintings on the exterior walls, gilded decorative friezes, and carved reliefs, was destroyed in the tragic fire of 1185. That fire changed the face of the Cathedral, but the restored version remains a wonderful masterpiece.

The Cathedral also survived when after the City's capture by the Mongol-Tartars in 1238 the prince's family was locked inside and the building was once again burned.

Assumption Cathedral, apart from being a solemn witness to these tragic events, has also enjoyed fame in its own right. It was the principal church where the princes of ancient Rus were crowned, both when Vladimir was the Russian capital from 1169 to the middle of the 14th century and then for some time after the political capital was moved to Moscow.

To host the crowning ceremonies Assumption Cathedral needed to be something special-and it was. The chronicles remarked on the abundant use of gold in the decoration of both the exterior and interior. Also it housed the celebrated miracle-working icon of the Virgin of Vladimir, widely venerated throughout the Russian lands. Of exceptional value are the 15th century frescoes still to be found inside the cathedral. They are the work of Andrei Rublev, one of the most famous of early Russian artists. Splendid altar and iconostasis also adorn the interior of the cathedral.

The only additional changes the cathedral has experienced were the 19th century additions to the ancient building. A classical style bell tower was constructed with a tall golden helmet on the site of an ancient belfry that had been destroyed by lightning. Later, in 1862, the chapel of St. George was built between the bell tower and the cathedral.

Assumption Cathedral was closed for church services by the Communists beginning in 1927. It was allowed to resume religious services in 1944—as part of Staliln's effort to enlist the Orthodox Church's support for the war effort against the Nazis. This magnificent cathedral has recently undergone major renovations. In addition to admiring the beauty of this UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, hopefully you'll be able to attend one of the religous services. This should be an experience you will never forget!