Saint John the Baptist Church at Opoki, Eastern Orthodox church in Yaroslav's Court, Veliky Novgorod, Russia.
Saint John the Baptist Church at Opoki is a stone structure with domed roofs and traditional Russian ecclesiastical architectural features dating to the 12th century. The building displays the characteristic form with several cupolas rising above the walls and traditional decorative details across its facades.
A local prince commissioned this church in the late 11th century and later transferred it to the city's wax merchants. The guild used the building to manage their affairs and participate in the city's trading institutions.
Merchants gathered here regularly to conduct their business and settle disputes among themselves. The space functioned as a social hub where traders from different parts of the city met and discussed commercial matters.
The church sits within the medieval city district near other historic buildings and is easily reached on foot. Access is generally available, but visitors should know that active religious sites may sometimes close during certain times or services.
In medieval times this building served as the keeper of weights and measures that merchants needed for trading. Official measuring tools were stored and monitored here to ensure fair commerce throughout the city.
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