Cathedral: the history of one of Uzhgorod’s symbols

The Cathedral of the Elevation of the Holy Cross on Kapitulna street is one of the spiritual symbols of the city of Uzhgorod. 

The foundation was laid down back in 1640, however, the modern look, the one we are so used to now, was formed in 1876-1877, as a result of significant restructuring. Experts may tell about its architectural features, the facade with a triangular pediment, octagonal three-storey towers with chimes… but his calmness and spirituality are what strikes the most.

The cathedral was rebuilt according to the project of Luca Fabry, who wanted to renovate the building and give it a look in accordance with the prevailing European tendencies at that time. He chose the neoclassical style. It was then when the temple has got the famous columns at the entrance. The author was inspired by the legacy of antiquity, where the columns were the main elements in all important buildings, especially religious ones.

At the beginning of the twentieth century. another remarkable event took place, which eventually transformed the temple into a work of art. Well-known Transcarpathian artist Yuliy Virah created the image of "St. Joseph with the Young Christ" and "The Heart of Jesus", located on the right and left altars, respectively. There was also a garden for spiritual quests and meditations, as well as a school and a library nearby.

It’s hard to say what exactly the Cathedral is. A spiritual symbol, a tourist attraction of Uzhgorod, or maybe an architecturally perfect building that strikes the eye and delights the soul? Most likely, all of that.

To read about other tourist attractions of Uzhgorod, click this link.

Photos from the Internet