Church of the Protection of the Theotokos, Cherepovo, church in Smolensk Oblast. Russia
The Church of the Protection of the Theotokos in Cherepovo is a church building in the classical style, distinguished by its circular rotunda and large domed roof that dominates the flat landscape for kilometers around. The structure contains three main altars, with the largest dedicated to the Protection of the Virgin Mary and two smaller sections honoring the Annunciation and the Holy Spirit.
Construction of the church began in the early 1820s on the estate of landowner Zachary Malyshev, inspired by the reconstruction of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem following a fire. The village community participated actively in the project, passing bricks in human chains from a nearby brick factory and contributing materials and funds over several years.
The church is known locally as the Smolensk Colosseum due to its distinctive round shape and imposing presence in the landscape. For generations, it served as a spiritual and social focal point where villagers gathered for celebrations and important events.
The site sits on an open flat area near the village edge and can be seen from several kilometers away. Visitors should be prepared for ruins with uneven ground and take care when exploring, as structural damage means some areas may be unsafe or restricted.
The church may have been designed by Mikhail Slepnyov, an architect from Smolensk known for his use of circular and domed structures, though the true architect remains unknown. The landowner Zachary Malyshev, who funded the construction, was buried near the church after his death, forever linking him to this place.
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