The Transfiguration Cathedral in Kholmogor

The most beautiful Transfiguration Cathedral in Kholmogory, built in 1691, is considered the largest stone temple in the Russian North. On July 28 of the same year, the church was consecrated.

Archival documents preserved the names of the builders – Fedor and Ivan Stafurov. And the internal painting was done by the icon painter Protopop Theodore. After Peter I visited the temple, money was transferred for its improvement.

This stunning five-domed temple, located on a hill, had a total height of about 42 meters, and was visible from the river. Near the cathedral on the west side were located: The court of bishops, the gate church in honor of St. James, the two-storey Chambers of Bishops and the house church of the archbishop.

The Transfiguration Cathedral became a tomb for the Archbishops of Kholmogor, including Bishop Athanasius. Unfortunately, in the Soviet era, the temple was destroyed and desolated. A detailed description of the once former splendor of the temple is preserved in the Book of Description, compiled by order of His Grace Athanasius in 1701. Currently, the temple is destroyed, the walls are covered with cracks, and only the bell tower has been restored.