Things to Do at Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, officially known as the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, stands as one of Saint Petersburg's most iconic and photographed landmarks. Built between 1883 and 1907 on the exact spot where Emperor Alexander II was fatally wounded in an assassination attempt in 1881, this magnificent Orthodox church serves as both a memorial and a masterpiece of Russian Revival architecture. Its distinctive onion domes, colorful facade, and intricate design make it appear almost fairy-tale-like against the classical European architecture that dominates the rest of the city. What truly sets this church apart is its breathtaking interior, which houses one of the world's largest collections of mosaics. Over 7,500 square meters of walls and ceilings are covered in elaborate mosaic artwork created by leading Russian artists of the time, depicting biblical scenes, saints, and religious imagery. Unlike many Orthodox churches that use frescoes, the Savior on Spilled Blood's interior is entirely decorated with these intricate mosaics, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that leaves visitors in awe. The church took over two decades to complete and represents the pinnacle of Russian ecclesiastical art and craftsmanship.

The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is located in the historic center of Saint Petersburg along the Griboedov Canal. The nearest metro stations are Nevsky Prospekt (5-minute walk) and Gostiny Dvor (7-minute walk) on the Green and Blue lines respectively. From Nevsky Prospekt, walk north toward the canal - the church's colorful domes are visible from several blocks away. Many city buses and trolleybuses stop nearby, and the location is easily accessible on foot from most central hotels. Taxis and ride-sharing services readily serve this popular tourist area.