Dormition Cathedral
In 2004, on the outskirts of the city of Astana, a decision was made to construct an Orthodox church. Despite the majority of the population in Kazakhstan being Muslim, the country upholds respect for all religions. This commitment was exemplified in the construction of the Dormition Cathedral.
In 2006, the foundation stone was laid and in 2009, the metropolitan bishop consecrated the five domes and crosses. Since the construction, Astana has undergone significant growth, and as a result, the cathedral is now situated in a bustling area of the city rather than on its outskirts.
Meticulous craftsmanship
The cathedral stands at a height of 68 meters (223 ft) and is adorned with intricately painted icons and frescoes. Skilled artists from the village of Palekh in Russia were invited to Astana to embellish the temple. In a remarkably short period, 40 craftsmen meticulously decorated the cathedral walls.
The iconostasis, crafted in Kostroma, Russia, stands out majestically. The walls of the cathedral are adorned with 170 icons. The icon shop and confessional boast a different interior, characterized by ornaments reflecting the national Kazakh style.
Church bells
In front of the cathedral, there stands a monument to St. Sergius of Radonezh, a wonder worker and the founder of several monasteries. Within the cathedral's courtyard, a bell tower reaches a height of 75 meters (246 ft). Cast at the bell factory in Yaroslavl, Russia, the bells, with a total weight of 20 tons (240000 lbs), were installed. In 2016, an «electronic ringer» was implemented, enabling the remote control of the bells through a computer, and reproducing a variety of ringing patterns.
Relics
Relics hold a special place of reverence among the parishioners. The cathedral owns particles of the relics of Andrew the Apostle and saints from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, as well as the icons of St. Mary of Egypt from the Holy Monastery of Saint Gerasimos of the Jordan, The Intercession of the Theotokos, and Our Lady Of Kazan.
The cathedral welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, with daily worship services taking place. A church shop is also available, offering candles, icons, and books for purchase.
How to get there?
Address: 27 Kuishi Din St.
The Holy Assumption Cathedral can be reached by buses #19 («The House of Students» bus stop) and #71 («Kuishi Din St» bus stop).
Tourist attractions near the Dormition Cathedral:
- L.N. Gumilev Eurasian National University
- Afghan War Park
- Jeruiyk Park
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