Gothic Cathedral in the Middle of Modern Kiev

Gothic Cathedral in the Middle of Modern Kiev. Part 2

If you are a real connoisseur of Architecture, St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral will surely win your heart. It is not only the functional church but also the National House of Organ and Chamber Music which is highly appreciated but classic music lovers. It is located on Velyka Vasylkivska Street, 77, not far from Palace Ukraine.

The cathedral was built starting from 1899 and was completed in 1909. The architect who was working on this masterpiece was basely V. Gorodetsky, the same, who created House with Chimaeras, with support of architect E. Sala.

In 1898 there was a competition for building a Roman Catholic Cathedral, and it was won by S. Volovskiy who created the two main towers of 60 m hight. The final management of building creation was held by Gorodetsky who paid more attention to decoration of the building. Because of the fact that the cathedral was constructed only on people’s donations, it’s creating took 10 years.

When it was completed, in 1909 year, it was consecrated. However, it 1933 the Soviet repressions began and it was closed and heavily damaged. During the World War II, it got under the bombardment.

Despite hard times, the cathedral was completely restored in 1978. that year the National House of Organ and Chamber Music of Ukraine was founded turning the cathedral into cultural center. Since 1992 and until now, everyone can enjoy remarkable classical concerts help in this building.

Entering the building, one finds himself in a small lobby, but going further and seeing the mail hall is really breathtaking. The ceiling is so high that is almost not seen. The firm columns are holding the whole construction, decorated with carving and small angels. Above the entrance there is an angel blowing the golden trumpet. At the end of the hall there is a remarkable organ consisting of 3846 pipes and made of red and black wood.

In addition, the cathedral is still working as a church, and everyone can attend it at 7:00 AM from Monday till Saturday and at 06:30 PM on Friday. The religious services can be listened in Ukrainian mostly, but there are also Latin, Polish and Spanish services help on certain dates. Spending wedding is really popular in this place due to its romantic view.

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