Hello everyone! It's been about a month since my last post here. There were many life problems, but there is nothing unsolvable. Sharing the architecture of Belarus is one of my favorite things to do. And here I am again with joy, ready to tell you about one of the places of worship in my country - the Exaltation of the Cross Church in the city of Ivanovo. Even though other sights are located in the center of this city, the church first attracted my attention.
The stone Church of the Exaltation of the Cross in Ivanovo was built in 1848. Surprisingly, the temple was built with the money of the first abbot Francis Pallulon, who was acquainted with the Russian Emperor Nicholas the First. The Empire style is considered a rare architectural style in Belarus; therefore, the temple is considered unique in terms of history and architecture. The building is rectangular and has no towers. The main facade is the face of the temple crowned with a stepped attic of light color.
Another moment that did not leave me indifferent is the painting of Napoleon Orda. I talked about this man earlier, but let me remind you that he was an outstanding artist and architect in several countries. Napoleon Orda left behind a great legacy. Thanks to his work, modern architects managed to restore several monuments of the architect. Take a look at what the Exaltation of the Cross Church looked like in 1861.
Drawing of Napoleon Orda - Photo Source
The history of the church, in one way or another, relates to another famous saint Andrei Boboli. This Jesuit monk had his cult. However, in May 1657, the Kazakhs forced him to convert to Orthodoxy, but he refused. For refusing to accept another faith, he was executed. In the picture above, a tall column stood at the site of his death. Unfortunately, the chapel was soon destroyed. However, at present it has been replaced by the figure of St. Andrew Bobola located on the temple's territory.
I was also struck by the fact that there are two crosses on the territory of the Church of the Exaltation of the Cross, not one. This is not typical for places of colonies. It turns out that one cross symbolizes the Orthodox and the second the Catholic denomination. This place unites all believers, regardless of their religion. Every year the church in Ivanovo is visited by hundreds of Catholic pilgrims from different countries.
There are small brick turrets on each of the corners of the church wall. This is a reminder of the former grandeur of the obelisk in honor of the holy martyr. In Soviet times, the church in Ivanovo was closed. Only in 1995 did the building return to believers' hands, and in 2000 it was completely restored. On the territory, I found another amazing thing - this is the figure of Jesus Christ. It turns out that the author of this work is the nephew of Napoleon Orda - Helena Skrimunt. So many interesting facts in one place.
Unfortunately, as often happens, I did not manage to get inside this wonderful temple. However, I managed to be surprised by the rich history of this place, feel the atmosphere of the shrine and enjoy its rich history.
I hope that I managed to convey to you the atmosphere for which the Holy Cross Church is annually visited by many believing Christians from all over the world. This place unites people regardless of the differences between Orthodoxy and Catholicism. I think it's wonderful. And what do you think?
Photo information:
Author: @danny.green
Camera: Nikon D5200
Location: Ivanovo, Belarus
Thanks to everyone who reads and supports. Best regards from @danny.green.
