Sacred Heart Church, Gothic Revival Catholic church in Samara, Russia.
Sacred Heart Church is a Gothic Revival Catholic church building in Samara, Russia, featuring twin towers adorned with pinnacles and intricate architectural details. The structure displays traditional Gothic design elements throughout its interior and exterior.
The church was built in 1906 following designs by Moscow architect Foma Bogdanovich, replacing an earlier wooden chapel that had served the community. This new stone structure became the focal point for the city's growing Catholic population.
The church served the Polish Catholic community in Samara, shaping their spiritual and social life in the city. After the 1930s, its role shifted when authorities repurposed it as a regional museum.
The building is located in central Samara and is easy to access on foot; visitors should be aware that opening hours and tour availability may vary depending on current status. It's best to check locally for current conditions before planning a visit.
The altar features a reproduction of Salvador Dalí's Christ of Saint John of the Cross, a surprising fusion of modern surrealist art within a 19th-century Gothic interior. This artwork choice reflects how the space bridges different artistic traditions and periods.
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