Ukrainian Crimean peninsula is famous by its pleasant climate, welcoming beaches and beautiful sights. Let’s take a look today at one of amazing Crimean showplaces, splendid St. Nicholas of Myra Lighthouse Church.
This church is located not far from Alushta. It was build in the name of those who died on the water, in the fame of lost ships and sailors. In Orthodoxy it is considered that St. Nicholas of Myra patronizes travelers and sailors that’s why his name was given to this temple. This beautiful church has also a lighthouse that guides the ships in the sea.
The church in Orthodoxy is a symbol of a Ship of Faith that brings the souls of lost people over the waves of stormy existence to the quiet haven of eternal life. So the architect of St. Nicholas of Myra Lighthouse Church gave a shape of a large ship to the whole ensemble of this place.
The first settlements in Crimea was created by Greeks and Orthodoxy came to this land from Byzantium that’s why the church has the distinctive features of classic Greek and Byzantium temples. The church is decorated with the icons of saint people those are placed into the big crosses at the facade of the church.
Today St. Nicholas of Myra Lighthouse Church is one of the highest churches in Crimea. It’s elevation is about 213 feet (65 meters) and the altitude above sea level is about 470 feet (143 meters). The cupola of the church is crowned by openwork golden ball that symbolizes a planet of Earth and is decorated with a cross, the symbol of Faith. There is a functioning lighthouse inside the ball that guides the sailors in the night.
The complex also has a museum of maritime disasters, in memory of lost ships and their crews and passengers. The workers of museum will tell you sad history of maritime disasters and will show you the parts of sunken ships and memorial plates that are presented here.
So if you are going to visit Ukraine this year and have a rest with your beautiful lady in Crimea, visit this peaceful place, St. Nicholas of Myra Lighthouse Church. And may your life together will always be happy, without any accidents!