The Cathedral of the Archangel stands on Cathedral Square in the Moscow Kremlin, between the Great Kremlin Palace and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower. Built from 1505 to 1508 by Italian architect Aloisio the New, it combines Russian Orthodox church design with Italian Renaissance details. Inside, frescoes cover the walls and pillars, and an ornate iconostasis rises above the icons and shrines. The cathedral also served as the burial place of Russian rulers: look for the tomb of Tsarevich Demetrius and the graves of tsars and princes.
A Kremlin cathedral built by an Italian architect
The Cathedral of the Archangel is on Cathedral Square in the Moscow Kremlin, between the Great Kremlin Palace and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower. Dedicated to Archangel Michael, it was built from 1505 to 1508 by Italian architect Aloisio the New on the site of an earlier cathedral dating to 1333.
Its exterior differs from the other churches on Cathedral Square. Italian Renaissance influences appear in the design, alongside carved stone decoration. The cathedral’s portal is decorated with frescoes, and five domes rise above the building.
Inside the cathedral
Frescoes cover the interior walls and pillars. Look for the icons and shrines, then take time with the iconostasis, which is about 13 metres long. Information sheets in multiple languages help identify important features and tombs.
The cathedral was the burial place of Russian tsars and princes before the capital moved to St Petersburg. Its tombs include those of Tsarevich Demetrius, Ivan the Terrible’s son, and other rulers. The walls and pillars also carry portraits of Moscow’s rulers and their ancestors.
A burial place and a museum
The cathedral’s role as a royal necropolis makes it distinct among the churches in the Kremlin complex. Its tombs connect the church’s religious interior with the history of Russia’s ruling families.
During the Soviet period, the cathedral became a museum. Restoration work helped preserve its interior, and researchers studied the building’s architecture and archaeology. Religious services resumed on 28 May 1991.
Planning your visit
Set aside at least 15 to 20 minutes to see the interior and read the information sheets. The cathedral is included with the general Cathedral Square ticket for the Kremlin. Tickets in advance are recommended.
Photography and video are not permitted inside. Choose a quieter time if you want more room to examine the frescoes, icons and tombs.
FAQ
Where is the Cathedral of the Archangel?
It is on Cathedral Square in the Moscow Kremlin, between the Great Kremlin Palace and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower.
How long do you need at the cathedral?
Allow at least 15 to 20 minutes to view the interior and its tombs.
Can you take photos inside the Cathedral of the Archangel?
No. Photography and video are not allowed inside.
What can you see inside the cathedral?
The interior has frescoes, icons, shrines and an ornate iconostasis. It also contains the tombs of Russian rulers, including Tsarevich Demetrius.
Is the cathedral included with a Kremlin ticket?
Entrance is included with the general Cathedral Square ticket for the Kremlin. Tickets in advance are recommended.
