Hotels near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Directly across Lossi plats from Toompea Castle stands Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the largest and grandest Russian Orthodox church in Tallinn. Built between 1894 and 1900 by architect Mikhail Preobrazhensky, it was commissioned by the Russian Empire during a period of active Russification. Five black onion domes rise above a pink granite and grey limestone facade, and the interior holds three altars and a set of 11 bells cast in Saint Petersburg - the largest weighs 15 tonnes and can be heard across the whole Old Town when it rings.

Entry to the cathedral interior is free. There is a strict silent-observation policy during services (typically 08:00 and 18:00 daily) and a request to cover shoulders and knees. The interior mosaics were completed by artists from the Frolov workshop and the icon screen (iconostasis) is unusually deep at three tiers. Photography is not permitted inside. The cathedral remains an active parish and is home to the Estonian Orthodox Church of Moscow Patriarchate.

Pro Tip: Visit between services (roughly 10:00 to 17:00) so you can walk the nave without disturbing worship. Combine with Toompea Castle across the square in one 45-minute stop.