Saviour on the Spilled Blood, A mosaic masterpiece of spiritual grandeur

Griboyedov Canal Embankment, 2B, St Petersburg, Russia 191186
A dreamy-looking church
4.6

Introduction

The Savior on Blood Cathedral, built from 1883 to 1907, was constructed in memory of Alexander II. Alexander II, the eldest son of Nicholas I, realized that the Russian Empire was on the verge of a social crisis after the Crimean War in 1855. He began to implement social, political, and economic reforms, strengthening Russia's unity and expanding its influence. Unfortunately, in 1881, Alexander II was assassinated by the populist group "People's Will", and this beloved Tsar passed away. The Savior on Blood Cathedral features exquisite mosaics and murals. Although it is not large in scale, it is incredibly beautiful. The cathedral's structure is heavily influenced by the St. Basil's Cathedral on Red Square in Moscow, with its numerous colorful domes being a prominent feature and a common image on postcards of St. Petersburg. Next to the cathedral is the entrance to the Mikhailovsky Garden, which is located behind the Russian Museum. From here, visitors can enter the Mikhailovsky Garden and proceed north to the Summer Garden for sightseeing.

Must-go rating

Worth going
5%
Generally
95%

Transportation

5%
Bus transportation
80%
Taxi/Uber
15%
Group travel
Address
Griboyedov Canal Embankment, 2B, St Petersburg, Russia 191186
Opening hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday from 10:30 to 18:00
closed on Wednesday.
Transportation
Take the green line subway to Гостиный Двор station, exit and turn left to walk to the river bridge. Then turn right to see the church. Walk straight on the road for approximately 300 meters to reach the destination. Alternatively, take the blue line subway to Невский Проспект station, exit and turn left to walk on the street. Walk straight for about 100 meters to cross the bridge and turn right to arrive at the destination. You can also take bus routes 3, 7, 22, 27 or tram routes 1, 5, 7, 10, 11, 22 to St. Metro Nevsky Prospekt station, exit and turn left to walk on the street. Cross the bridge and turn right to arrive at the destination.