Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, Varna (must see)

The Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Positioned on “St. Cyril and St. Methodius” square, this cathedral is a prominent feature of Varna. The cathedral's history began in 1880 when the first stone was laid by Prince Alexander I of Battenberg. To mark this significant occasion, the prince pardoned prisoners from Varna prison, further emphasizing the event's importance.

The cathedral's design and construction were influenced by several notable figures and architectural styles. The foundations were laid according to the plans of Odessus architect Maas, while the construction followed a design by the municipal architect P. Kupka. The building was inspired by the Peterhof Temple in Saint Petersburg, and local materials were used throughout its construction, including copper tin for the roof and domes. The construction was largely funded by donations, supplemented by a lottery that sold 150,000 tickets, both domestically and internationally.

The complete decoration of the cathedral began in 1949, and by the 1960s, stained glass windows were installed, adding to the building's beauty and solemnity. Between 1999 and 2002, significant renovations were undertaken, including the installation of a ventilation system and the restoration of the mural paintings. In 2001, the municipality funded unique outdoor lighting, which highlights the cathedral's architectural features at night. The renovation of the cathedral's domes was completed in 2002, with the roof construction enriched with materials based on gold and silver.

Today, the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Varna's rich cultural and architectural heritage.