Novokuzentsk is one of the most populated cities in Russia and features one of its most attractive and architecturally unique cathedrals. The Novokuznetsk is situated in Kemrtovo Oblast and is home to the Nativity of Christ Cathedral. This red, white and blue, multi-tower work of art building features several gold domes of varying sizes – each topped with an orthodox cross.
The construction of the Cathedral in honor of the Nativity of Christ at Novokuznetsk Orthodox Theological Seminary began in the summer of 2000. However, the stone was consecrated and installed as early as July 4, 1998. A temple was constructed in memory of the 67 miners who died on December 2, 1997 in Zyryanovskaya mine. On August 19, 2010, on the Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord in Novokuznetsk eight gilded domes with crosses were consecrated and raised to the towers and bell tower of the Cathedral under construction.
The main dome, designed in the style of that of the Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow was assembled from parts directly on the site (on the central lantern drum) because of its the incredibly large size and weight. At the end of the construction works, the highest point of the Cathedral and the entire Ordzhonikidze district was the orion dome crowning the bell tower: it rises 51.6 meters above the ground.
On the bell tower there are nine bells made by the Urals founders.
In May 2011, painting works started in the church. Paintings in the Cathedral follow the traditions of the 14th and 15th centuries, the heyday of Orthodox art. Along with the Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ, on the territory of the complex there is an administrative and economic building with an assembly hall, administrative offices, a library, hotel rooms, lecture halls, a dining room (refectory) for 80 seats, and a garage block.
In the basement there are warehouses and technical rooms.
Things to do when visiting the area
There are a lot of interesting places to visit in Novokuznetsk nearby the Nativity of Christ Cathedral including several museums, theaters and city parks.
Two of the larger museums visitors are encouraged to spend some time at are the Museum of Art of Novokuznetsk and the Museum of Local Lore. Or if you just want to relax and enjoy your time you can visit Novokuznetsk's Circus.
The circus of Novokuznetsk is as big as the Moscow circus and sure to be a fun outing for the entire family.
