Saint Clement of Ohrid Cathedral
Skopje Region
Saint Clement of Ohrid Cathedral, commonly known as Soborna Crkva, is the largest cathedral of the Macedonian Orthodox Church, located in Skopje, North Macedonia. Designed by Slavko Brezoski, its construction began in 1972 and the church was consecrated in 1990 to honor the 1150th anniversary of Saint Clement of Ohrid, the church's patron. Architecturally, the cathedral is a remarkable rotunda composed entirely of domes and arches, measuring 36 by 36 meters. The main sanctuary is dedicated to Saint Clement of Ohrid, while the lower church honors the Holy Mother. Additional chapels commemorate Emperor Constantine and Empress Helena, as well as Saint Mina the martyr. The interior features frescoes painted by academic artist Jovan Petrov and collaborators, including an extraordinary depiction of Jesus Christ covering 70 square meters with eyes measuring 1.5 meters in diameter each. Departing from tradition, Old Testament prophets are portrayed seated rather than standing. The cathedral's lighting is enhanced by crystalline acrylic placed before large windows, creating colorful light rays, and a massive five-ton polileum with approximately 400 bulbs under the central dome. A 45-meter belfry with three bells of varying weights stands near the entrance. The fountain at the front was gifted by the Islamic religious community, symbolizing interfaith respect. This cathedral is a masterpiece of modern Macedonian religious architecture and a cultural landmark in Skopje.
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Tip: Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the cathedral's colorful light effects through the crystalline acrylic windows. Consider attending a service or special event to experience the cathedral's spiritual atmosphere. Advance ticket purchase is generally not required. Modest dress is recommended respecting Orthodox traditions.
Interesting facts
- •The central dome covers an area of 650 square meters, one of the largest in the region.
- •Jesus Christ is depicted on a 70 square meter surface with eyes 1.5 meters in diameter, an unusually large artistic feature.
- •The cathedral uses crystalline acrylic in front of its large windows to create colorful light rays depending on sunlight angle.
- •The belfry stands 45 meters tall and houses three bells weighing 1000 kg, 500 kg, and 300 kg respectively.
- •The fountain in front of the cathedral was a gift from the Islamic religious community, symbolizing interfaith harmony.
History
The cathedral's construction commenced in 1972, designed by architect Slavko Brezoski, and was consecrated on August 12, 1990, marking 1150 years since Saint Clement of Ohrid's birth.
It was built to serve as the main cathedral for the Macedonian Orthodox Church in Skopje.
Over the years, it has become a symbol of Macedonian religious and cultural identity, incorporating modern architectural elements while honoring traditional Orthodox Christian symbolism.
Place Guide
Main Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid1990
The primary sanctuary dedicated to the cathedral's patron saint, featuring the iconostasis with icons by Gjorgji Danevski and Spase Spirovski, and frescoes by Jovan Petrov.
Lower Church Dedicated to the Holy Mother1990
Situated beneath the main church, this chapel is devoted to the Holy Mother and serves as a quieter space for prayer and reflection.
Chapel of Emperor Constantine and Empress Helena1990
A chapel honoring the imperial couple, reflecting their importance in Orthodox Christian history.
Chapel of Saint Mina the Martyr1990
Dedicated to Saint Mina, this chapel commemorates the martyrdom and faith of the saint.
Central Dome and Archbishopric Throne1990
The central dome spans 650 square meters and features a 3.5-meter-high archbishopric throne beneath it. Two opposing chairs, each two meters high, symbolize the ruler of the world and his empress according to local catechisms.
Belfry1990
A 45-meter tall bell tower located to the north of the main entrance, housing three bells weighing 1000 kg, 500 kg, and 300 kg respectively.
Fountain in Front of the Church
A symbolic fountain gifted by the Islamic religious community, representing interfaith respect and coexistence in Skopje.
Contact
Phone: 02 322 7450