Alexandro-Nevsky Novoarmarky Cathedral: history of creation and description

On the site of the confluence of two powerful rivers - the Oka and the Volga - towers the Alexander Nevsky Novoyarmarichny Cathedral. The time of construction of this temple was at the end of the nineteenth century.

The color scheme of this majestic structure impresses with its shades. The yellow walls and dark tents look quite nice and contrasted against the background of blue river water. In those days the cathedral was considered the third largest in all of Russia. And in modern times this building remains one of the highest temples of the country.

How did the structure

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was created at the direction of the merchants of Nizhny Novgorod, who decided to erect it in memory of the visit of the Emperor to their city fair. Thus, they tried to perpetuate the religious patriotism of their loyal subjects.

Moreover, this city and its inhabitants were in great need of building a new church, because the old church could not accommodate all the parishioners. So the Alexander Nevsky Novoarmarky Cathedral appeared. The century of its foundation just coincided with the death of the emperor, so at the opening of the temple was attended by his son - Alexander III.

Erection

The construction was developed in St. Petersburg by several engineers, but, unfortunately, the author of the final project is not established, it is known only that he was improving the young L.V. Dahlem. In the building there is a noticeable Russo-Byzantine style prevailing in the country at the time of the century of construction.

The Alexander Nevsky Novoarmarky Cathedral represents a combination of several architectural trends. According to the scheme of the structure, the monastery resembles the so-called Greek cross. The temple is endowed with octagonal tents, the most central of them rises up as much as 73 m. The whole structure rises 87 m above the ground.

The construction of such a magnificent structure lasted for thirteen years. Upon completion of the internal works, the temple was opened in 1882.

Decay and Restoration

After the revolution, the cathedral was sealed, and its values were either stolen or seized. All the wooden inventory of the structure was used as firewood for heating the houses of citizens. Believing people miraculously managed to save some holy faces and icons.

In the 1920s, a special project was developed, according to which the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral should not be demolished in order to erect a lighthouse with a monument to the leader of the proletariat. This plan was not implemented, but the tents in the process of preparing for the demolition of the building had time to dismantle.

In the forties of the last century in the temple there was a fire that destroyed almost the entire building of the monastery. During the Second World War, an anti-aircraft gun was installed on the surviving central part of the cathedral, protecting the celestial expanses of Nizhny Novgorod from the enemy's aircraft.

In the early eighties it was decided to restore the temple. A lot of volunteers took part in repairing the structure. After this, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was returned to the diocese, and divine services began again in its building, although the restoration continued. So, the wall with the icons in front of the altar was newly constructed by architects, because the secrets of the masters of those times could not be uncovered.

In 2009 the church received the status of a cathedral. And a little later the interior decoration of the cathedral was completed and now it is planned to refine the territory near the building to make it more convenient for him to get there.

Contemporary look

The church today has several ancient icons and the Life-Giving Cross, which was previously in the Vysokovsky Cathedral. On the territory of this building is one of the largest bells of the country, which weighs about 60 tons, and its height is about 4 meters.

It was cast from special bronze and brought to the city on the occasion of the celebration of the four hundredth anniversary of the militia of Nizhny Novgorod. On the bell there are inscriptions that perpetuated the names of all those who donated funds for the creation of this miracle. Its surface is decorated with images of Russian princes and saints.

Feedback from parishioners

Many residents of Nizhny Novgorod strongly recommend to all visitors or those who have not been there yet, to visit the Alexander Nevsky Novoarmarky Cathedral, as it looks amazing, and also has a unique appearance that brought together several styles.

It is difficult to guess to which architectural direction this majestic structure belongs, and many scientists are inclined to assert that this is an explicit eclecticism, although it looks very beautiful. This stylistic decision came to mind the popular designer of those times - L. Dal.

The parishioners love their cathedral, thanks to the fact that one can calmly stand and reflect on life without catching numerous views. It is very convenient that near each icon there are tablets with prayers. Thus, without even knowing the words of prayer, it is possible to read it.

Location and ways of travel

This temple is far from the roadway, so parishioners and people who come here randomly here are few. To reach it, located at the mouth of the Oka River, is certainly not easy. But this building is worth it.

The address where the Alexander Nevsky Novoyarmarichny Cathedral is located is Nizhny Novgorod, Strelka Street, 3A. You can get there by using public transport, but then you have to walk a little on foot. And on all issues of interest you can call: +7 (831) 277-99-26.

The described temple looks very solemn, and everyone who visited this holy place, find peace and ease in the soul.