Saint Michael's Cathedral, Sochi, Eastern Orthodox cathedral in central Sochi, Russia.
Saint Michael's Cathedral is an Orthodox church in central Sochi with Russian-Byzantine architectural features including a prominent central dome flanked by four smaller domes. A bell tower extending to 34 meters (112 feet) anchors the building's composition and dominates the skyline.
Construction began in 1874 on the site of a former fortification and was completed by 1890. The building underwent significant changes in the 1930s when its religious purpose was interrupted for several years.
The cathedral serves as the spiritual heart of Sochi, where visitors encounter traditional Orthodox liturgies and observe daily prayer practices. The interior displays religious icons and artwork that reflect Orthodox faith and devotion.
The cathedral welcomes visitors daily and holds services throughout the day following the Orthodox calendar. Those planning a visit should dress respectfully and be mindful of ongoing prayer services that may limit access to certain areas.
The building served non-religious purposes between 1931 and 1944 before returning to its role as a place of worship after World War II. This interruption reflects the political upheavals that reshaped the region during the 20th century.
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