The Russian Armed Forces Cathedral was design and dedicated to mark the 75th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War alongside many other Soviet and Russian military engagements. The lavish Cathedral honour of the Resurrection of Christ and is symbolic to the longstanding relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the military.
However controversies were highlighted during the construction and after the Cathedrals inauguration. Public funds were used for the construction which raises the concerns how religion is influencing the state and politics to housing Adolf Hitler’s personal items.
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The Purpose of the Russian Armed Forces Cathedral
The Cathedral serves as a symbolic and religious centre for the Russian armed forces which reflects both spiritual and national significance. The cathedral is a places of worship and spiritual guidance for those who have served or active military. It’s a space for the military reflect on their duties and strengthening patriotic values.
The cathedral also reflects Soviet and Russian military involvement throughout history. Not only does it preserve and pass on the legacy of the country’s victory for the Great Patriotic War but also conflicts in Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Transnistria, annexation of Crimea and many other conflicts. These scenes are beautifully displayed throughout the cathedral in forms of mosaics.
Ultimately the purpose of the cathedral represents Russia’s religious, national, historical and cultural importance, reflecting Russia’s deep connection between its armed forces and Orthodox Christian traditions.
Discover all our tours to the unique de facto states of Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Transnistria.
The Architecture and Symbolism of the Russian Armed Forces Cathedral
There is no cathedral like the Russian Armed Forces Cathedral. The exterior façade are finished with metal, giving it a unique military feel sets it apart from other religious buildings.
The sizes and dimensions are symbolic to dates of the Great Patriotic War. The floors are made with melted weapons and tanks of the defeated Wehrmacht forces, reinforcing the theme of Russia’s wartime victories.
There are a total of 6 domes, which 4 are identical weighting 34 tonnes each. The central dome is the largest and weights 80-tonne and was erected in 2019. There are 18 bells with largest weighting 10 tonnes, which are decorated to reflect Victory in the Great Patriotic War. These artworks serve as a visual testament to Russia’s rich but complex military and religious history.
The main dome diameter is 19.45 meter, symbolic when to when the Great Patriotic War ended (1945). The war between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany lasted 1,418 days, the height of the small dome is 14.18 meters.
A particular highlight of the cathedral is the frescos and stained glass mosaics depicting Orthodox Christian saints and scenes from Imperial Russian Army, Red Army and the Great Patriotic War.
The main Icon of the Saviour Not Made by Hands, with image of Jesus Christ imprinted on cloth by the Saviour himself to King Abgar V of Osroene. King Abgar is notably featured on Armenia’s 100 Dram note, further connecting the cathedral to the broader Christian narrative.
The Controversy of the Russian Armed Forces Cathedral
The cathedral has been heavily criticised for the Russian government promoting national pride, militarism, and state power. The mosaics in the cathedral not only displays scenes from Great Patriotic War but also a scene of Soviet and Russian armed forces throughout the years, from Afghanistan to the “Little Green Men” in Crimea. Each of these military actions is illustrated, with space left to add more future engagements.
A partially completed mosaics also depicted Joseph Stalin, Vladimir Putin and various high-ranking Russian officials, however this was later removed.
The museum located next door is rumoured to house Adolf Hitler’s peaked cap and personal clothing’s. According to Russia’s Deputy Minister of Defence, the collection of such items is a common practice following military victories. This is nothing compared to the war plunder of the British Museum.
Further controversy surrounds the funding of the cathedral, which was provided by both the city government and the Moscow Oblast. This financial support has highlighted the intertwined relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the state, raising concerns about the influence of religious institutions on the state.
Is it ethical to visit Russia and the Armed Forces Cathedral?
Many people debate whether it’s ethical to visit a military cathedral or even Russia itself. This really depends on your political views, particularly regarding Russia’s involvement in Ukraine as well as one’s respect for religious practices, culture, and history.
There are many who oppose Russia’s Special Military Operation in Ukraine, and some Western voices are vocal in their anti-Russian stance. However, where were these same voices when the United Kingdom and the United States carried out indiscriminate bombings across Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen and Libya? Were these countries met with heavy international sanctions?
It’s hypocritical that Western governments criticise other nations while they continued to trade with Russia. Journalists, for instance, have focused heavily on India-Russia special relationship, yet remain silent about the atrocities caused by Western coalitions in the Middle East.
Russia remains a beautiful country to explore, and the military cathedral is ultimately a place of worship. We continue to visit Russia and experience a un-touristy, fascinating and hospitable country.
We maintain a neutral perspective on global geopolitics and regional issues. Our goal is to uncover lesser-known destinations and engage directly with locals, gaining their insights and perspectives beyond the typical media narratives. Explore all our unique group tours to Russia.
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