Archangel Michael Church, Baku

The Archangel Michael Church, located in the heart of Baku, is a notable Russian Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Michael. Serving the spiritual needs of its community, the church is staffed by Archpriest Mefodi Efendiyev, three priests, and one deacon. The church holds historical significance dating back to its origins around 1850, which is inferred from an 1855 publication in the "Kavkaz" newspaper.

Originally named Flotskaya due to its association with the Caspian Flotilla, the church was built in honor of Alexander Nikolayevich Tsesarevich, chief of the navy, commemorating his visit to Baku with Russian Emperor Nikolay I in 1851. The architectural style of the church is inspired by Pskov constructions, and notably, its prayer room is designed to resemble a ship deck, reflecting its naval heritage.

Significant transformations have marked the church’s history. On August 15, 1873, by decree of Alexander II, the Flotskaya Church was handed over to the Military Office to serve the Salyan Reserve Regiment. The church was later managed by the Caspian Eparchy Office from 1875. It underwent substantial renovations between November 1891 and November 1892, which cost 22,000 rubles.

In 1906, it was renamed "Polkovoya - 262 of Salyan Regiment" but was closed in 1936 during Soviet rule, being repurposed as a communal house. The church was reopened in 1946, post-World War II when the Soviet authorities recognized the importance of religion in fostering national spirit and morale.

The church has also been graced by the visit of Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow on May 25, 2001, highlighting its ongoing religious significance and heritage within the Russian Orthodox community in Azerbaijan. Today, the Archangel Michael Church stands as a symbol of resilience and historical depth in the cultural landscape of Baku.