Old Believers churches

The Old Believers churches in Mikhailovskaya Sloboda are wooden structures topped with traditional onion domes that retain original features from their construction period. The buildings display craftsmanship in their facades and roof designs that characterize religious complexes from that era.

These churches were built in 1689 during the split of the Russian Orthodox Church, when followers of traditional practices separated from the main church. The community established itself as a distinct religious movement and constructed these buildings to practice their different beliefs.

These churches preserve religious rituals and practices that set them apart from mainstream Russian Orthodoxy, reflecting how this community has maintained its distinct identity for centuries. You can observe these differences in the way altars and icons are arranged throughout the interior spaces.

The site functions as an active religious center and gathering place for the community of believers. Visitors should remember this is a living space with ongoing religious activities, where respectful behavior and following local customs are expected.

The wooden iconostasis inside displays religious artwork following pre-17th century artistic guidelines, a style rarely seen in other Russian churches. These specific artistic features serve as a visual record of the theological interpretations this community has maintained.