Russian Cathedrals on a Historical Walking Tour

Sightseeing  :  Russian Federation  :  Moscow  :  Moscow  :  Walking Tours

Russian history is as rich as it is controversial. Russian society has always built its life according to the spiritual values. That's why it is so interesting to learn Russian history, traditions and local reality by exploring monasteries and churches, which are a reflection of Russian unique and dramatic experience.

You will see a lot of hidden gems like ceramic glazed tiles with multicolored pattern named "peacock eye" that keep fascinating memories and stories worthy to be heard. The tour covers all the most beautiful churches and cathedrals, both must-see and non-touristy. You will see: Novodevichy Convent, Christ the Savior Cathedral, the Church of Gregory Neokesarian, Marfo-Mariinsky Convent, St Clement Church.

Topped with historic walk in the ancient district, fun facts and beautiful architecture, this tour is ideal to soak up the local atmosphere and historic vibe.

10am - Meeting in the hotel lobby, where you can ask your guide any questions and discuss the plan for the day;

10-10:30 - Metro trip or taxi to Novodevichy - New Maiden's - Convent (middle of 16th century). The architectural ensemble of the monastery was formed in the XVI-XVII centuries, the monastery has not changed significantly since then;

10:30-10:50 - A brief walk around Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Site;

10:50-11.10 - Metro trip or taxi to Christ the Savior Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Russia designed for 10 000 people. Erected in the traditions of Russian-Byzantine style. The gorgeous painting inside the church covers nearly 22 000 m² of the walls;

11.10-11.30 - Visiting Christ the Savior Cathedral, enjoying iconic views of the Kremlin, Peter the Great Monument and Moskva River from Patriarch's bridge;

11:30-11:50 am - Walk around Zamoskvorechye area, the most ancient area of Moscow. The district is seriously pretty and romantic. No wonder Zamoskvorechye streets are popular among newly-weds;

11:50-12.00 - See the Church of Gregory Neokesarian (middle of 17th century). First mentioned in 1445, the temple is amazing in its architecture. It’s completed with three rows of corbel arches called "tongues of fire". Tile frieze is the most notable feature of the magnificent decoration of the temple;

12.00-12:30 - Historic walk, Marfo-Mariinsky Convent (beginning of 20th cent), hidden down an alley on Bolshaya Ordynka street. The church was founded in 1908 by Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna, who was a granddaughter of Queen Victoria and thus closely related to the Greek, Danish, and British Royal families;

12:30-12.50 - Walk to the elegant St Clement Church (18th century) where you will take in its fabulous interior and learn the history of the place. This beautiful five-domed church was first mentioned in 1612, in connection with the Battle of Moscow between Russian militiamen and Polish-Lithuanian army. Tucked among a myriad of refined cafes and restaurants, St Clement Church is a wonderful place to finish the tour;

1.00 Finish at Varenichnaya restaurant (Russian cuisine). With a menu as playful as it’s name, you will have a big variety of dumplings to choose from. Or else head to Korchma for a traditional lunch (Russian/Ukranian cuisine). Chic low-lit dining room adds up to the atmosphere of ancient times.