The Cathedral of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, known as the Russian Church of Geneva, is a Neo-Russian-style Orthodox church built between 1863 and 1866. Discover its gilded domes, iconostasis and icons, and attend Orthodox services.
Religious buildings
Main highlights
- Neo-Russian architecture inspired by the Muscovite style of the 16th and 18th centuries
- Gilded domes that dominate the Les Tranchées district and can be seen from afar across the city
- Ornate iconostasis, frescoes and icons inside, in keeping with Orthodox tradition
Overview
In 1862, the city of Geneva gave the Orthodox community a plot of land on which to build its church. The site stands on a former early Christian cemetery, where the Saint-Victor convent stood until the 15th century. The church was built between 1863 and 1866.
The plans were drawn up by David Grimm, a professor at the Saint Petersburg Academy of Fine Arts, who drew inspiration from Muscovite architecture. The first sketch is said to have been made by Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna, daughter of Nicholas I. The funds, raised throughout Russia by Archpriest Athanasius Petrov, came in part from the imperial family, including relatives of Alexander II.
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What to see and do
Outside, the gilded domes dominate the Les Tranchées district and form a landmark on the city skyline. Walk around the building to admire its Neo-Russian forms and the surrounding railing, made in the 19th century like the mosaic floors.
Inside, the richly decorated iconostasis separates the nave from the sanctuary in keeping with Byzantine tradition. Frescoes and icons cover the walls, following the canons of Eastern Orthodox art.
The church remains an active place of worship. You can attend liturgical services, celebrated according to the Orthodox rite with traditional chants. The building is listed as a Swiss cultural property of national significance (Class A).
Practical information
Getting there : the cathedral is located in the Les Tranchées district, close to the city centre, served by several tram and bus lines.
On site : public parking in the surrounding streets.
Visiting : admission is free outside religious services.
Dress code : appropriate attire is required in this place of worship.
Visiting tips
Come in the morning if possible, when the atmosphere is calmer and the light shows off the gilding. To attend a service, check beforehand, as times follow the Orthodox calendar. Respect the rules of the site, particularly regarding photography, and keep silent.
This visit is part of the selection Geneva, between lakes, mountains and cosmopolitanism.
Nearby attractions
- The Reformation Wall, in the Parc des Bastions, pays tribute to the great figures of the Protestant Reformation.
- The Bains des Pâquis, on the shores of Lake Geneva, welcome swimmers and strollers summer and winter alike, facing the Jet d’Eau.
- CERN, in Meyrin, introduces the public to particle physics at its Science Gateway centre.
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