Russian Orthodox Church in Meran, Eastern Orthodox church building in Untermais district, Merano, Italy
The Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas stands as a two-story annex within the Villa Borodina complex and displays typical features of Eastern Orthodox architecture with its domes and iconostasis. The building is located in the Untermais district and serves today as a prayer house for the Orthodox community of the region.
The house of worship was consecrated in 1884 and stands as witness to the time when South Tyrol belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. After interruptions during World War I, services were resumed only in 1997.
The church serves the Orthodox community for worship according to traditional practices, where believers pray standing without pews as in Western churches. The space maintains its iconostasis and other Eastern Orthodox elements that shape daily prayer life.
The church is located in the Untermais district and is easily accessible, with entry through Villa Borodina. Visitors should remember that this is an active place of worship, so appropriate behavior and respectful clothing are required.
The church was built during the time of Austro-Hungarian rule, when many wealthy Russian families came to the region and settled in Merano. Today it remains one of Italy's oldest Russian houses of worship and reflects the cosmopolitan history of the place.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.