Saint Nikita Martyr Church, Elizarovo

Saint Nikita Martyr Church is a stone structure featuring five domes, three naves, and a distinctive belfry tower positioned on the southeastern side. The building displays classic features of Russian Orthodox architecture and remains well-maintained today.

Construction of the church began in 1555 under Ivan the Terrible, replacing an earlier temple that had stood at the site since 1378. This rebuilding was part of broader religious construction efforts in the region during that era.

The church serves as an active place of Orthodox worship where visitors can observe traditional Russian religious practices. People gather here for prayers and religious celebrations, keeping the spiritual role of the space alive.

The church can be entered through two different doors: the northern entrance provides access at ground level, while the southern entrance reaches the first floor. Visitors should be aware that entry times may be limited during religious ceremonies and holidays.

Between 1930 and 1980 during the Soviet period, the building served completely different purposes, housing first a chess club and then a public library. This unusual history demonstrates how dramatically the use and meaning of the place shifted over those decades.

Location: Elizarovo near Pereslavl

GPS coordinates: 56.71479,39.26568

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:24