Dormition Cathedral, Kem

The Dormition Cathedral is a wooden Orthodox church in Kem built using local timber and northern Russian construction traditions, featuring three tent-shaped towers that mark different altar areas. The entire structure demonstrates how builders maximized vertical space and created multiple worship sections within a single wooden framework.

The cathedral was built in 1714, a time when Russian control over the White Sea region was becoming more stable after major military victories. This period marked a shift toward establishing permanent Orthodox religious structures in these remote northern territories.

The structure occupies Vitsupa Street as a testament to how Russian Orthodox communities organized their sacred spaces using only wood and traditional methods. You can observe how the three towers create distinct interior sections, each one designed to serve a specific function in the religious life of those who worshipped within.

The building sits on Vitsupa Street in central Kem where most visitors can find it easily when exploring the town. You should plan to spend time walking around the exterior and nearby streets to fully appreciate how the structure fits within the local landscape and settlement pattern.

Recent conservation work beginning in 2016 carefully restored the wooden structure while maintaining original construction methods and materials. This restoration effort represents one of the larger preservation projects focused on keeping northern Russian wooden churches standing for future generations.

Location: Kem

Inception: 1714

Part of: Комплекс Успенского собора (Кемь)

GPS coordinates: 64.94655,34.61716

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50