Saint Nicholas Church, Sortavala

Saint Nicholas Church is an Orthodox house of worship in Sortavala built from stone with a symmetrical facade featuring several domes and arched windows. The building sits centrally located and follows traditional Orthodox architectural principles with clear geometric proportions.

The building was designed in 1873 by Nikolay Pavlovich Grebyonka during a period when Orthodox influence was expanding across the Karelia region. Its construction reflected growing Russian cultural presence in this border area.

The church represents an Orthodox spiritual center in a region where Finnish and Russian communities have long coexisted. It remains a place where local residents gather for religious observance and celebration of traditions rooted in Eastern Christianity.

The building is located on Gorky Street near the town center of Sortavala and can be easily reached on foot. The main entrance faces east, following Orthodox architectural convention.

The building blends Finnish and Russian architectural elements, reflecting the shifting history of this border town. Its design tells a story of a time when the region changed hands between nations.

Location: Sortavala

Inception: 1873

Architects: Nikolay Pavlovich Grebyonka

GPS coordinates: 61.70514,30.69314

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:28