A block behind the State Russian Museum back on the canals was the Saviour of the Spilled Blood Cathedral. This is probably the most iconic church in St Petersburg and dominates the skyline with St Issacs Cathedral. Both are visible from my hotel room.

Walking along the canal there were tourist souvenir booths cashing in on the popularity of this attraction. Aside from traditional Russian dolls they had Putin mugs and dolls of past Russian and Soviet leaders.


 






























 

I inquired in one stall and they told me 900R ($20). They actually had a SpongeBob Russian doll I was looking at for my nephew or a Spiderman one but that was too expensive for a kid that will just toss them.




The colourful domes were almost sculpted like ice cream cones. Inside was also breathtaking.

 


















 

I read this was Russia's largest collection of murals and didn't disappoint. Like other Orthodox churches every interior surface of the domes and arches was covered with detailed artwork.




After a busy walking day exploring churches I'd certainly saved the best till last. This was not always the case and there were also displays of earlier decay prior to restoration. A must see and highlight for anyone visiting.










    




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