Savior on the Spilled Blood

About this experience

The Cathedral of Spilled Blood is located by the Griboyedov Canal, adjacent to the Mikhailovsky Garden and the Russian Museum. It is a rare authentic Russian architecture in St. Petersburg. In 1811, Tsar Alexander II was killed by members of the "will of the people" due to the failure of the revolution. Between 1883 and 1907, the Cathedral on Spilled Blood was built on the site of the Tsar's death, hence the name. The design of the Cathedral on Spilled Blood draws on the style of the Cathedral of St. Basil's Ascension. The colorful "onion head" roof is very eye-catching. The height of the chapel is about 81 meters high, which is quite majestic. The chapel is also elegant in outline and richly decorated, inlaid with intricate and vividly coloured image patterns, accompanied by richly coloured patterned tiles and enamel bronze panels. Among them, the gilded onion heads are famous all over the world. The whole church can be photographed from the other side of the Riboyetov Canal. The interior of the Cathedral of Spilled Blood is decorated with more than 7,000 square meters of exquisite mosaics, mainly depicting scenes and characters from the stories of the Bible. These mosaics are exquisitely processed from Italian-made marbles of different colors and Russian-made gems. Nearly 30 artists participated in the production, which can be regarded as artistic masterpieces. A marble bust of Shatrov stands where the Tsar was killed, as a memorial to Alexander II. There is a small market next to the Cathedral of Spilled Blood, where there are many souvenirs about the Cathedral and Russian characteristics. Near the church is the entrance to the Mikhailovsky Garden, which also leads to the Russian State Museum. If you have enough time, you can visit.

Highlights

• Distinctive “onion dome” design inspired by St. Basil’s Cathedral, featuring vibrant colors and intricate details.
• Interior adorned with over 7,000 sqm of stunning mosaics made from Italian marble and Russian gems.
• Iconic landmark built on the site of Tsar Alexander II’s assassination, symbolizing Russia’s turbulent history.
• Located near Mikhailovsky Garden and the Russian Museum, surrounded by charming souvenir markets.

What's included

• Savior on the Spilled Blood Ticket

How to use

1. Show Mobile Ticket
2. Ticketing Counter

What to expect

Discover one of St. Petersburg’s most remarkable landmarks, the Cathedral of Spilled Blood, built on the very site where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated. Admire its vibrant onion-shaped domes, intricate mosaics covering over 7,000 square meters, and richly decorated interiors that reflect the grandeur of Russian art and architecture. Inspired by St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, this masterpiece combines history, faith, and artistry in every detail. Located beside the scenic Griboyedov Canal and near the Mikhailovsky Garden, it offers a perfect spot for sightseeing and photography, with nearby markets selling charming Russian souvenirs.

Things to note

• Closed on Wednesdays

Terms & conditions