Helmet Domes of Assumption Cathedral at Winter Sunset (Vladimir)

Helmet style domes (cupolas) with crosses of the ancient Assumption Cathedral of Vladimir against skies with fleecy clouds at winter sunset. The view from the observation deck near the Church of Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki.

The majestic Assumption (Dormition) Cathedral was built in 1158-1161 on a pedestal of the highest hill, dominating the ancient Russian city of Vladimir by Grand Prince Andrey Bogolubsky. It was rebuilt after a fire in 1185-1189 by his son Vsevolod the Big Nest. The building was conceived as a cathedral and its exalted function was reflected in its bold height – thirty-two meters, four more than St. Sophia’s in Kiev. From the time of Grand Prince Andrey Bogolubsky, this cathedral became the church where all princes of ancient Rus (Russia) were crowned, both when Vladimir was the Russian capital from 1169 to the middle of the 14th century and then for some time after the political capital was moved to Moscow.

Photo #366 taken on November 29, 2015