In the very center of Novosibirsk, at the intersection of Krasny Prospekt and Maksima Gorky Street, there rises a small but very significant shrine of the city – the Orthodox Chapel in the name of Saint and Miracle Worker Nicholas. This is not just an architectural monument, but one of the symbols of Novosibirsk, filled with a special history, dramatic events of the 20th century and modern spiritual life.
How it all began: a people's construction
The idea of building a chapel appeared in 1913, when Russia celebrated the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty, and the young city of Novonikolaevsk celebrated its 20th anniversary. The project became the first “people’s construction” of the city: funds were collected by subscription, donations were made by both charitable organizations and ordinary citizens. The famous architect Andrei Kryachkov, the author of many buildings in Siberia, including the Hundred Apartment Building and the City Trade Building, acted as the architect.
The chosen location for the construction was symbolic – on the axis of Nikolaevsky Prospect (now Krasny), in the geometric center of the city. The design of the chapel was inspired by the architecture of ancient Novgorod: a vertical building with a cylindrical drum and a helmet-shaped dome looked solemn and harmonious.
The work began in the summer of 1914 – just 11 days before the start of the First World War. Despite the difficult situation, the chapel was ready by December of that year. The consecration was timed to coincide with the feast of St. Nicholas of Winter. The chapel was given the main icon as a gift – the image of St. Nicholas, made in the Moscow icon painting school. It contained a particle of the great martyr’s relics.
The loss of the shrine in the Soviet era
After the revolution, the attitude towards religion changed dramatically. At the end of 1929, a decision was made to demolish the chapel. The procedure was carried out in a hurry, with violations. Already in January 1930, the building, built with public funds, was destroyed. In its place, first a monument to a Komsomol member with a hammer was erected, then a monument to Stalin, which was later also removed. The place itself remained empty for a long time, until in the 1980s an initiative appeared to restore the lost shrine.
Rebirth: Memory and Precision
The idea of restoring the chapel gained support in 1988. Already in 1991, the first stone of the new building was laid. The project was prepared by a young Novosibirsk architect Pavel Chernobrovtsev, and the interior painting was done by his father, artist Alexander Chernobrovtsev. Although the location had to be slightly shifted due to a modern transport interchange, the chapel’s appearance is an exact replica of the original.
The grand opening took place in 1993, for the 100th anniversary of the city. And in 2002, the lost relic returned to the chapel – the icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker with a particle of his relics, donated by Patriarch Alexy II.
Today: the spiritual heart of Novosibirsk
Today, the Chapel of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker remains one of the most recognizable places in Novosibirsk. Its snow-white walls, dark dome, and modest size stand out against the backdrop of the city’s rhythm. Prayers are held here, religious processions are held, and those who want to pray, light a candle, or just come in just drop in.
The chapel is located in a convenient place for tourists – there are many attractions and public transport stops nearby. Photography is not allowed inside so as not to disturb the worshipers, but you should definitely go inside: there is an atmosphere of peace, comfort, and sincere faith.
Address: Novosibirsk, Krasny Prospekt, 17a.
Come to Novosibirsk and stay at the Hotel N
If you are planning a trip to Novosibirsk, include the Chapel of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in your list of must-see places. And to make your stay truly comfortable, choose the “Hotel N” – a modern hotel with cozy rooms, convenient location and excellent service. We are located near the center and are happy to welcome guests traveling both on business and for educational purposes. Book a room in advance – and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of hospitable Novosibirsk!
