Saint Alexander Nevsky Monastery

This monastery consecrated in 1713 initiated from Peter the Great. Two years later, architect Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli was put in charge of extension works. In 1724, the Emperor transferred the remains of Alexander Nevsky there. Grand Prince of Vladimir, dead in 1263, his name was associated with several military victories. Considered a National Russian Hero, he was canonized in the 16th century. The monastery contains the Trinity-Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The first stone was laid in1774. Architect Ivan Starov was put in charge of the project. It was consecrated in 1790 on Alexander Nevsky name day. Five other churches are located on the estate. In the late 18th century, under Paul I, the orthodox monastery received the title of ”Lavra”. Only few religious structures have this status in Russia. Ukraine has a few more of these places. They are placed directly under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan. In 1932, all the monks were arrested. The monastery welcomed new ones only after 1996. The cathedral, however, reopened in 1957 as a parish church.