Sobor Svyatoy Zhivonachal'noy Troitsy, or Trinity Cathedral, is an active Russian Orthodox church on Izmaylovskiy Prospekt in St Petersburg. Its colorful exterior and detailed interior are the main reasons to step inside. Look for the Column of Victory, made from Ottoman guns captured by the Life Guard Izmaylovsky Regiment during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877 to 1878. The cathedral reopened to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1992 after its closure during the Communist era.
The Column of Victory
The Column of Victory commemorates the Life Guard Izmaylovsky Regiment's part in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877 to 1878. Its material connects the monument directly to that conflict: it was made from Ottoman guns captured by the regiment.
The column was dismantled in 1930 during the Communist era. It was recreated in 2005, so the monument visitors see today is a reconstruction.
Closure and reopening
The cathedral was closed during the Communist era and reopened to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1992. Restoration work has been underway to return the building to its pre-Revolutionary appearance.
FAQ
Is Trinity Cathedral an active church?
Yes. The cathedral reopened to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1992.
What is the Column of Victory?
It is a monument made from Ottoman guns captured by the Life Guard Izmaylovsky Regiment during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877 to 1878. It was recreated in 2005 after being dismantled in 1930.
What should I wear inside Trinity Cathedral?
Wear a head covering as a courtesy, and keep your voice low inside the active church.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Advance ticket booking is recommended.
