A lovely winter view of my favourite Russian Orthodox church in St. Petersburg . . .
The falling snowflakes just add even more beauty to this photo of the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Today, the church is part of the Metochion of Optina Pustin Monastery.
Situated on the Vasilievsky Island, at the mouth of the Neva River, this magnificent church was constructed in 1895-1900 according to the plans of Vasily Kosyakov (1862-1921) in the Russian-Byzantine style — a favourite of Tsar Nicholas II.
Each time I visit St. Petersburg, I am drawn to this church. It’s historic interiors and frescoes offer a sanctuary for prayer and reflection. It remains my favourite church in this magical city.
