This unique temple was built not so long ago, but in just a few years of its existence it has acquired the status of one of the main attractions of Lugansk. The beauty, unusual architecture and special atmosphere of Svyatoslavladimir Cathedral attract not only the city residents, but also tourists from other cities and countries.
Even in the years of construction (1995-2006) it was obvious that the cathedral would become a historical building for future generations.
The project of the temple was designed by A. Bondarev — diocesan architect. The building plan shows that the cathedral is built in the form of a cross, with a length of 51m from east to west and 44m from south to north. Bright, as if luminous building of the temple is crowned by 15 gilded domes with crosses. The area of St. Vladimir’s Cathedral is almost 2700 square meters. In such a spacious temple can be simultaneously present almost 3 thousand parishioners.
Thanks to its unique modern architecture, this cathedral has become one of the largest religious buildings in southeastern Ukraine.
On April 9, 1993, the site of the future temple was consecrated by Archbishop Ioannikiy of Lugansk and Starobelsk and Metropolitan Vladimir, Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine, Primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Former President Leonid Kuchma laid the first stone in the walls of the cathedral.
During the construction, a capsule with the names of clergymen, builders, designers and benefactors who took part in the construction of St. Volodymyr Cathedral was laid in the foundation slab.
The temple was built on the funds of the state budget and individual donations of people and organizations. In general, the idea of building a cathedral in honor of Prince Vladimir the Equal-to-the-Apostles belongs to the residents of the city. They applied for blessing for this endeavor to Archbishop Ioannikiy of Lugansk and Starobelsk back in 1992.
St. Vladimir’s Cathedral was solemnly consecrated on March 19, 2006. Since then it surprises everyone with its grandeur, being one of the most beautiful buildings not only of the city, but also of Ukraine.
If you visit the city and go to explore sights of Lugansk, you will certainly not be able to miss this magnificent temple, which, thanks to its location on a high and open place, can be seen from afar.