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The Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral (Uspenie Bogorodichno) is the second largest church in Bulgaria and the most important in Varna.
The cathedral opened in 1886 and was dedicated to the Russian soldiers who died fighting the Ottoman occupation of Bulgaria. The bell tower stands 38 meters high and was built between 1941 and 1943 by architect Stefan Venedict Popow. The domes took their appearance during this period as well.
Interior
The cathedral was modeled after the church at Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg by an Odessan architect, Vasili Maas. It features a stunning iconostasis carved by Ivan Filipov in 1912 and an equally impressive bishop’s throne carved by Niko Mavrudi in 1897. The chandelier was carved in 1952 by Peter Kushlev.
The interior is covered from floor to ceiling with beautiful murals. The painting of the church didn’t start until 1949, and it was done by Russian master Nikolai Rostovtsev. The stained glass windows were installed in the 1960s.
The stained glass windows were installed in the 1960s. Saints Cyril and Methodius are portrayed on one window while another St. Angelarius and St. Clement of Ohrid.
Visiting
The cathedral is open daily with services every morning. It’s located in the city center.
