2. Origins of Russian Architecture
• Kievan Rus 988- 1230 a.C.
(medieval state of Russia, Belarus, Ukraine)
• Influenced by Bizantine architecture
• Churches were built after
the adoption of Christianity
in 988.
• Cupolas meant the celestial sky. It is
the union between earth and God.
• Later on, Onion shaped domes
replaced cupolas. This shape was useful because it prevented
accumulating snow during the winter. These became characteristic of
Russian Architecture up until 1700’s.
3. Interesting facts….
“For most of its history, Russian architecture has been
predominantly religious. Churches were for centuries the only
buildings to be constructed of stone, and today they are almost the
only buildings that remain from its ancient past. The basic elements
of Russian church design emerged fairly early, around the eleventh
century. The plan is generally that of a Greek cross (all four arms are
equal), and the walls are high and relatively free of openings.
Sharply-sloped roofs (tent roofs) and a multitude of domes cover the
structure. The characteristic onion dome first appeared in Novgorod
on the Cathedral of Sancta Sophia, in the eleventh century.”
Text taken from “Russian Art and Architecture” http://www.geographia.com/russia/rusart01.htm
