Great Zlatoust Church
Ural Federal District Region
The Great Zlatoust Church, also known as Bolshoi Zlatoust, is a monumental Orthodox church in Yekaterinburg, Russia, distinguished by its 77-meter-high bell tower that was once the tallest building in the Ural region. Originally designed in 1847 by Vasily Morgan in the Russo-Byzantine style inspired by Konstantin Thon, its construction spanned nearly 30 years. The church was dedicated to St. John Chrysostom and housed a ground floor chapel honoring St. Maximian, patron saint of the Czar's son-in-law. After the Russian Revolution, the church was closed and dismantled in 1930, replaced by statues of Lenin and Stalin. In the early 21st century, the church was meticulously rebuilt using historical photographs and descriptions, restoring its historic grandeur. Today, it stands as a cultural and architectural landmark reflecting both the religious heritage and turbulent history of the region.
Plan your trip to Russia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to check for opening hours and consider visiting during the warmer months for better access and comfort. Advance ticket purchase is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Due to the church's historical significance, guided tours can enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •The bell tower was the tallest building in the Urals region before its destruction in 1930.
- •The church's architecture reflects the Russo-Byzantine style derived from Konstantin Thon's works.
- •The ground floor chapel was dedicated to St. Maximian, patron saint of the Czar's son-in-law, Maximilian de Beauharnais.
- •The church was rebuilt after nearly 80 years relying solely on old photographs and descriptions.
History
The Great Zlatoust Church was designed in 1847 and took nearly three decades to complete, becoming a dominant feature of Yekaterinburg's skyline.
It was closed and dismantled in 1930 following the Russian Revolution, with its site repurposed for Soviet statues.
After approximately 80 years, reconstruction began in the early 21st century, guided by archival photographs and descriptions, culminating in the church's restoration as a symbol of cultural revival in the region.
Place Guide
Bell Tower1847–1870s
The iconic 77-meter bell tower, originally built in the 19th century, dominates the church's silhouette and was once the tallest structure in the Urals. It exemplifies the Russo-Byzantine architectural style.
Ground Floor Chapel Dedicated to St. Maximian19th century
This chapel honors St. Maximian, one of the Seven Sleepers and patron saint of the Czar's son-in-law, reflecting the church’s historical ties to Russian royalty.
Contact
Phone: 8 (343) 283-06-18
