St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Profile

Nicholas II, Russia's last czar and father of the infamous Anastasia, made one of the first donations toward the construction of this cathedral. Its completion was of such importance to the Orthodox Church that parishioners throughout Russia were solicited at the eleventh hour to donate everything from rubles to jewelry. One hundred and one years after the cathedral's opening, another fundraising effort facilitated its renovation: New frescoes based on the founders’ original sketches were created, while the dusty weathered icons were sent home for cleaning and restoration. Located on a serene, tree-lined block in tony Carnegie Hill, the St. Nicholas still cuts an imposing figure with its five onion-shaped cupolas, high vaulted ceilings, and ornate entrance. The Muscovite baroque cathedral has been a major center of Russian Orthodoxy since 1901 and continues to support a loyal congregation of primarily Russian-speakers. In the relatively small interior, patrons worship directly in front of a lavish sky blue and gold leaf altar. As Orthodox Christians typically stand during mass, the only pews are two long benches in back, reserved for the very elderly and the very young. — Celia Colista

A Divine Liturgy is held in English at 7 a.m. every Sunday.

Easter Weekend
Women sell colored eggs and Easter bread from the cathedral steps on its lovely, tree-lined block in Carnegie Hill. Parishioners and visitors can then have priest bless the food for the next day’s feast.

Tours
Guided tours are available by appointment only. If you visit on a Sunday, go in the afternoon, after the day's masses have been held.