It is the unique monument of the white-stone architecture of Vladimir and Suzdal. The church was built in 1158-1160 by prince Andrei Bogolyubsky as a principle church of the Vladimir-Suzdal principality. The cathedral stands on a high hill over the Klyazma river. Its original shape expressed the dignity of Vladimir as a capital city and the power of the prince. Its cupola was shining like gold, its exterior walls were decorated with carvings and paintings. The vault rested on 6 pillars and was crowned with a single dome.