Our Lady of Smolensk church

Our Lady of Smolensk is a church with an octagonal structure and a prominent cupola, built in the late 17th-century Moscow Baroque style. The building displays characteristic architectural features of that era through its carefully designed shape and traditional decorative elements.

The church was built between 1698 and 1701 by Timofey Savyolov during a period of architectural change in Russia. During the Battle of Borodino in 1812, it served as an observation point and played a key role in the conflict.

The church is named after Our Lady of Smolensk, a venerated protector figure in Russian Orthodox tradition. Visitors can still see the historic icon screen installed in 1837, which reflects the artistic craftsmanship of that period.

The site is easy to access and remains an active place of worship within the Moscow Eparchy of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Visitors should be respectful of services and timing so that you can appreciate the quiet function of the sacred space.

The building survived both the Napoleonic Wars and World War II, even though there were demolition plans during Soviet times. This resilience makes it a rare example of a religious monument that kept its original form despite political upheaval.

Location: Borodino (village), Mozhaysky District, Moscow Oblast

Inception: 1697

Architectural style: Moscow baroque

Part of: Borodino Museum

GPS coordinates: 55.52729,35.81805

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:23