The cathedral was constructed on a vow given by sovereign Alexander I in gratitude for saving fatherland "from the Gauls invasion." The temple was supposed to be built on Vorobyovy Mountains, and architect A. Vitberg was supposed to manage the project. Subsequently, "on intrigues against the architect," the project of a temple and a place of construction were changed. The new place was chosen not so close to the Kremlin, so that connection of the temple with ancient constructions of the Kremlin and the Red Square would be felt.
September 10, 1839 the solemn laying of the present temple in Russian-Byzantine style took place. It was designed by architect K.A. Ton, at the expense of the Treasury and people's donations. Two cemeteries and mammoth remnants were found while digging a foundation ditch. The temple was consecrated in April, 10, 1883 during the days of crowning of Emperor Nikolay I. Side chapels were consecrated later. In June, 12 the side chapel of St. Nikolay Chudotvorets was consecrated and in July, 8 - the one of St. Alexander Nevsky. K.A. Ton has created the project of a five-domed temple with a big central and four angular turrets with 14 bells.
The banners and keys of the conquered cities were transferred to the temple. 640 candlesticks were built in a dome for illumination, and 600 more around the lattice on choruses. First electric street lamps in Moscow appeared on the square in front of the temple. The height of the temple was 103 meters. In December, 5 1931 the temple was blown up. Subsequently the foundation ditch was used for the construction of a swimming-pool called "Moscow". In 1994 the pool was closed. In January, 1995, the solemn laying of the revived temple took place. Now the construction is completed. The temple features a working museum, where excursions are regularly held and the viewing platform is arranged.
Address: Vochonka st., 1
