Named after the patron saint of St. Petersburg, the Alexander Nevsky Lavra, or Alexander Nevsky Monastery, is a network of holy buildings that attracts worshippers, as well as fans of Russian music, literature and science. Wander through the five churches on the site and explore the graveyard, where several of Russia’s national heroes are buried.
Peter the Great ordered the monastery to be built on this site, mistakenly believing it to be the location of an important battle between the Swedes and Russia in 1240. Despite his error, the monastery flourished and in 1797, it was declared a lavra, the highest status for a monastery in the Russian Orthodox Church
Enter through the Gate Church’s grand arch, which is decorated with an intricate religious mosaic. Inside, you are free to explore most of the grounds at your will, but be aware that this is still a working monastery so be respectful of worshippers.
Be sure to stop by the Church of the Annunciation, characterized by the delicate white designs on its red façade. This is one of two Baroque churches on the site designed by father and son architects, Domenico and Pietro Trezzini. The neoclassical Holy Trinity Cathedral is also worth visiting. Head inside the cathedral to see numerous religious paintings and icons, as well as a silver shrine holding the remains of Alexander Nevsky himself.
Most visitors here come to explore the Lazarev and Tikhvin Cemeteries, which are jointly known as the Necropolis. Stroll around the graves, admire the excellent examples of funerary art and read the inscriptions. You’re likely to encounter a few familiar names. Among the elite Russian artists, composers and thinkers buried there are Crime and Punishment author Fyodor Dostoyevsky, composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky, architect Carlo Rossi and mathematician and physicist Leonard Euler.
Ride the metro to Ploshchad Aleksandra Nevskogo station, which is just a short walk away from Alexander Nevsky Lavra. The churches are free to enter but there is an admission fee for the Necropolis. The grounds are open daily but hours vary depending on the season.
