Ascension Cathedral (Zenkov Cathedral)

Ascension Cathedral (Zenkov Cathedral)
The Ascension Cathedral, located in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the city's most notable landmarks. The cathedral is a striking example of Russian Orthodox architecture, featuring towering spires, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Its distinctive design and elaborate details made it one of the most photographed buildings in the city.

History
The cathedral has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the early 20th century. It was built between 1904 and 1907, during a time when the Russian Empire was expanding its influence in Central Asia. At the time, Almaty was a growing city and the Russian government saw the need for a grand cathedral that would serve as a symbol of its power and influence in the region.

The cathedral was designed by a prominent Russian architect, Konstantin Borisoglebsky, and was built using traditional Russian Orthodox building techniques and materials. Engineer Andrei Zenkov supervised the construction. To this day, the church is sometimes called Zenkov Cathedral. The cathedral's design features the characteristic onion domes and intricate carvings, making it a true masterpiece of religious design.

Over the years, the Ascension Cathedral has played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of Almaty. During the Soviet era, when religion was banned, the cathedral was closed and used as a storage facility. After the fall of the Soviet Union, it was reopened and restored to its former glory. Today, the cathedral is once again an active place of worship and serves as a spiritual center for the local community. Its beautiful design and rich history make it a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you are a history buff, an architectural enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect and connect with the divine, the Ascension Cathedral is an unforgettable experience.

A masterpiece of wooden architecture
The Ascension Cathedral is known for its traditional, all-wooden construction. Some people claim that it was built without the use of any nails or metal screws. However, it’s not quite true. While the structure is held together using interlocking wooden joints, some metal elements are still present. But it doesn’t make the cathedral less fascinating. Standing at 56 meters (184 ft), it is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world.

The skill of the architect was tested a few years after the construction was completed. In 1911, a strong earthquake struck Almaty, causing significant damage to many buildings. The church’s central dome was damaged, and the bell tower leaned to one side. Despite the destruction, the wooden structure of the church remained largely intact, and it was eventually restored.

Renovated and glorious
The Ascension Cathedral, like all structures, has suffered from the effects of time and required restoration. The work started in the summer of 2017 and required 2 billion tenge to complete, raised through contributions from the public and the business community. Skilled artists from Russia, France, and Germany participated in the project, utilizing cutting-edge technologies while still preserving the original designs of the architects. The opening of the restored cathedral was attended by Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan and Hilarion of Eastern America and New York, who led prayers and celebrated the liturgy.

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