Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood St Petersburg

Discovering the Majesty of the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood, St. Petersburg

Welcome to St. Petersburg, a city steeped in history and beauty! Today, we’re going to explore one of its most iconic landmarks: The Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood (Собор Спас на Крови).

The Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood

This unique orthodox church was built to commemorate the assassination of Alexander II in 1881. Its name is derived from the belief that the Tsar’s blood spilled onto the pavement below when he was attacked. The Tsar-Liberator, who freed the serfs, was fatally wounded by a terrorist bomb on March 13, 1881, on the very site where the church now stands. Construction began in 1883 and was completed in 1907, creating a powerful memorial to this pivotal moment in Russian history.

Located at the intersection of the Griboyedov Canal and the River Neva, the church is a feast for the eyes with its spectacular polychrome onion domes. The five golden domes are intricately decorated with enameled tiles in brilliant blues, greens, and golds, topped with gilded crosses that catch the sunlight. The exterior facade features elaborate details reflecting Russian Revival architecture, creating a striking contrast to St. Petersburg’s neoclassical aesthetics.

Inside, you’ll find over 7500 square meters of mosaics, making it one of the most extensive collections in the world. The interior mosaics are breathtaking, depicting religious scenes with vibrant stones and smalt (colored glass paste). Nearly every surface—walls, ceilings, and arches—is covered with these intricate mosaics, creating an immersive spiritual atmosphere. The altar area features particularly stunning mosaic work, including depictions of Christ and the apostles.

Where to Stay

St. Petersburg offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget. For a luxurious stay, consider the Belmond Grand Hotel Europe or the Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg. If you’re looking for more affordable options, Hostel World has several properties in the city center.

Where to Eat

St. Petersburg’s culinary scene is as diverse as its history. For traditional Russian cuisine, visit Teremok or Kanaal for blini (Russian pancakes) and borsch (beetroot soup). If you fancy something more international, head to the Nevsky Prospekt area where you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants.

Things to Do and See

  1. Hermitage Museum: Explore the vast collection of art and artifacts housed in the former residence of Russian emperors.

  2. Peter and Paul Fortress: Visit this historic fortress located on Zayachy Island, where you can see the Peter and Paul Cathedral and the Trubetskoy Bastion Prison Museum.

  3. Nevsky Prospekt: Stroll along this famous street, lined with shops, restaurants, and historical buildings.

  4. Canal Cruise: Take a boat tour to admire the city’s stunning architecture from a different perspective.

  5. Marinsky Theatre: Watch a performance of one of Russia’s most famous ballets, such as Swan Lake or The Nutcracker.

Tips for Tourists

  1. Remember that St. Petersburg can get quite cold and wet, so pack accordingly. Winter temperatures drop below freezing, while summer is mild. The White Nights (extended daylight in June-July) offer unique photographic opportunities.

  2. Many places require reservations, especially during peak season, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment. The Church of Our Savior may have entry restrictions or specific visiting hours.

  3. English is not widely spoken outside of the main tourist areas, so learning a few phrases in Russian might come in handy.

  4. Always carry small change for public toilets and trams.

  5. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting churches or religious sites. Remove hats and observe quiet behavior inside the church.

  6. Current Travel Advisories: Check your government’s travel advisories for Russia before planning your trip, as the current geopolitical situation may affect tourism and visa requirements. International flights may be limited or require alternative routing.

  7. Photography inside the church may be restricted or require special permission; ask staff before taking pictures.

  8. Consider joining a guided tour to learn detailed history about Alexander II’s assassination and the church’s construction.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to St. Petersburg! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos.