mosta dome tour

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The Mosta Dome: Why visit and how to get there

While Mosta isn’t one of the top tourist spots to come up in your research when you’re planning your holiday on the Maltese islands, it definitely has a very beautiful (not so hidden) gem to offer: the Mosta Dome!

The Mosta Dome is one of the best known churches in Malta, located in the central village of Mosta.

You might be thinking, what’s so special about a dome in the middle of a busy town centre?

Well it’s not just about the dome, it’s also about the stunning and unique architecture of this magnificent Roman Catholic place of worship and the stories it has to tell.

Here’s all you need to know about the Mosta Dome.

Tours that include a visit to the Mosta Dome

• Half-day bus tour including Mosta Dome
• Full-day tour: Mdina & Malta highlights

Visitor information

• Rotunda Square, Mosta
• All ages: €5 (including World War II Shelter)
• Mon-Fri 9:30-18:00h | Sat 9:30-16:30h | Sun 12:00-17:00h (Last entrance is 30 minutes before the closing time)
• Wheelchair accessible

5 Interesting Facts about the Mosta Dome

1) it wasn’t always the place of worship in mosta.

You read that right! Initially, a smaller church (known as  Ta’ Żiri  – Ziri’s) built in around 1614 used to occupy the exact spot where the current church stands.

Giorgio Grognet de Vassé (a Maltese architect) was the one who proposed that a new neoclassical design based on the Roman Pantheon should be adopted to replace the old Renaissance church. The impressive structure was built in just 28 years, between 1833 and the early 1860s.

2) It boasts impressive architectural features

Grognet pulled off an amazing feat of design.

The church façade has a portico with six Ionic columns and is flanked by two bell towers. Its main feature which earns it the name of a rotunda is a spectacular dome with an external height of 61m and a diameter of 39.6m, making it a feature in most rooftop panoramas around Malta.

The dome itself is unsupported and for a time was considered to be the third largest in the world!

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The interior is also stunning, painted blue, gold, and white and decorated with rich colours and stunning statues, stucco mouldings, and gilded and decorative elements.

There are also eight niches and a bay containing the main entrance and a deep apse which includes the main altar. Definitely not a sight to miss if you enjoy viewing beautiful art and architecture!

3) It’s the scene of a miracle

The first story you will be bombarded with (pun not intended – you’ll understand why soon enough) if you so much as whisper ‘Mosta’ around a local is that of the war bomb which crashed through the dome and did not explode.

On 9th April 1942, a group of around 300 worshippers was gathered in the church for the evening Mass at around 16:40 when a 500kg (1,102lbs) German aerial bomb pierced through the ceiling and smashed a hole into the floor below.

Luckily, no one was hurt or killed as the bomb did not detonate. The highly religious Maltese people of the time declared this to be a miracle and a sign of divine intervention from God who was protecting the nation during the Second World War.

In total, three bombs were dropped on the church – two deflected without exploding, and one went through the ceiling.

Members of the Royal Engineers Bomb Disposal unit defused this last one and dumped it into the sea off the West coast. However,  a close replica is displayed in the sacristy .

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4) It’s a spectacular backdrop to major religious celebrations

Come the time for religious celebrations, the Mosta Parish is one of the churches which is most famous for such traditions. One of these is the  Good Friday procession  in which a number of people choose to wear the  kunfratija  – a white or black full body cover to indicate piety and penance. Many also decide to walk the procession barefoot as a sign of repentance for their sins.

A less sombre and more fun occasion is the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, which is held every 15th August and is a notable holiday island-wide.

One can enjoy the marching band, the stands with colourful wares for sale, and others with tasty local treats such as  imqaret  and nougat.

Don’t forget the highlight of every  feast (or  festa )  – the stupendous fireworks display!

5) It goes by several names

Ir-Rotunda  (the Rotunda),  il-Bażilika  (the Basilica),  il-Knisja tal-Mosta  (the Mosta church) – these are just a few of the names the locals use to refer to it.

Officially, the church is The Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady since it was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by the Vatican in July 2018.

How to get to the Mosta Dome

The Mosta Dome is very easy to find and reach as it is located smack bang in the centre of Mosta Square and close to it there are several bus stops which let off passengers.

These are the bus routes to catch:

• From Valletta: catch the 41, 42, 44, 45, or 48 and stop at the bus stop called Rotunda 4.
• From St Julian’s:  catch bus 202 from near Balluta Bay and stop at Rotunda 5.
• From Sliema: catch bus 202, 203 and get off at Rotunda 3.
• From Bu ġibba: catch bus 48, 186 and stop at Rotunda 3.
• From Mellie ħa: catch bus 44, 41 and stop at Rotunda 3.

Hop-on-hop-off

You can also take the North Route of the Hop-on-hop-off bus routes. Get your tickets in advance here!

My tips for visiting

• If you wish to attend Mass, you can check out the times Mass is celebrated on the  official website  of the Mosta Parish.
• Keep an eye on those hours to time your visit if you’re not interested in attending Mass. Also, consider going earlier in the day (before 10 am) and on weekdays to avoid the crowds!

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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Welcome to Mosta Dome

One of the largest unsupported domes in the world, scroll down  for more information for visitors, welcome to mosta basilica, an experience not to be missed.

For a long time it has been renowned as being the third largest unsupported dome in the world.

Outside diameter 56.2 metres. Inside diameter 39.6 metres. Internal height 54.7metres.

This gigantic rotunda church is decorated with many paintings by Giuseppe Calì and other able artists.

While on a visit to the Mosta Dome one should not miss going into the sacristies, to view and admire the various objects of prestige, including paintings and a large-scale model of the church. Not to be missed is a replica of the bomb which, in 1942, pierced the dome and landed on the church floor. The bomb did not explode. No one died and the church was not destroyed.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Visitors opening Hours:

Monday to Friday from 09.30 till 18.00 - last entrance 17.30

Saturday from 09.30 till 16.30 - last entrance 16.00

Sunday from 12:00 till 17.00 - last entrance 16.30

Using Public Transport:

Mellieħa – Mosta 44; 41

Qawra Bus Terminus - Mosta 45, 186, 31, 48, 280

Valletta – Mosta 41, 42, 44, 45, 48

Sliema – Bugibba – Mosta 212 to Andru Stage Bugibba and 103 to Mosta

Entrance Fee:

€5 to visit Mosta Basilica, World War II Shelter, go up to the inner Balcony of the Dome and access to an Audio Guide through a mobile phone app.

Mosta Second World War II Shelter

The Rotunda of Mosta & more for groups

A Sheridan Leisure Website. MTA Operators License No. TRA/S/01.

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Mosta, Crafts Village & Mdina Tour

• AM Half Day Tour
• Pick up/Drop off included 0830hrs from Gozo Ferry Terminal/Cirkewwa/Marfa 0840hrs from Mellieha 0850hrs from Xemxija/Golden Bay 0900hrs from St. Pauls Bay Area (incl. Bugibba & Qawra) 0910hrs from St. Julians Area (incl. Swieqi, Ibragg & San Gwann) 0855hrs from Sliema Area (incl. Gzira & Msida) 0840hrs from Valletta Area (incl. Cruise Ship Terminal & Floriana) 0830hrs from Central localities 0830hrs from Southern localities You will be dropped off at the same pick up point Times above are for guidance only and the actual time is confirmed to you on the Service Voucher which you will receive after booking. When finalising your booking you must add your accommodation details (hotel, guest house, apartment address etc…) so we can allocate a suitable pick up point and time. If you have any queries regarding pick up locations, points and times do not hesitate to get in touch via our Contact Us page.">
• Mosta Dome entrance included
• Accompanied by Licensed Tour Guide
• Available in 4 languages
• FLEXI Cancellation

Additional Information

Book this experience.

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Due to the limited availability of this service, we need to reconfirm with the operator if they still have availability.

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Organisation Information

Main street, mosta, malta.

Built in 1860 over another church that was built in 1614, the church of St. Mary is the Parish church of Mosta. The interior of the church is quite impressive with its circular shape and clear interior.

The awesome dome is the fourth largest in the world and famous due to the incident that took place during WWII – a bomb, which pierced the dome in 1942 landed on the church floor and slid across the floor without exploding! The church was crowded when the bomb hit and all were spared. The bomb is now on display in a small museum attached to the church.

Mosta’s titular feast – that of St. Mary or the Assumption of Our Lady – held on August 15th is a high point in the local religious celebrations. The people of Mosta rally in front of the Rotunda in a manifestation of joy, merrymaking and social wellbeing.

As from the 1 st of April 2018, a new tourist tour system to the Sanctuary Mosta Dome was introduced. This system helps tourists to benefit from the Sanctuary architecture, prestigious art and historical paintings of this national monument.

Opening hours for tourists are as follows: From Monday to Friday from 9:30am till 5:00pm ; Saturday from 9:30am till 4:30pm ; Sunday from noon till 4:00pm. 

The main sacristy is left open so that the tourists can visit this part of the church as well.

A feature is shown about this monument and its main principles

There is space where one can pray quietly. Prayer books in different languages can be provided.

The above requires various expenses to be incurred. As a result, tourists older than 12 years of age who enter the sanctuary have to pay a minimal fee of €2. This includes VAT. 

For further assistance, phone on 27418368 or 99453484.

Contact Information

• Contact: Mosta Parish
• Phone: +356 21245350
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: http://maltadiocese.org/lang/en/p …

Facilities & Services

General Information

View on Map

A Digital Audio Tour around the

Mosta Basilica

Welcome to the Mosta Dome

The rotunda is elevated to the, dignity of a minor basilica: 31 may 2018, some dimensions, the impressive floor of the basilica, information, please tap to listen, the statue of our lady of sorrows, the mosta parish and its first church, the building of the basilica, inscription around the dome, the eight spandrels around the lower base of the dome, the statue of saint joseph, the pipe organ, the two niches one on each side of the main entrance to the basilica, the stations of the cross, the chapel of saint roque, saint sebastian, and saint rosalia, the chapel of saint joseph, the baptismal font, the chapel of the crucifix, the chapel of our lady of consolation, the chapel of the conversion of saint paul, the chapel of our lady of the rosary, the sacristy on the left, the miracle of the bomb, the sacristy on the right, the choir behind the main altar, the dome visitors centre, the façade of the rotunda, shelters in wartime mosta (1940-45), the stone mason, the hairdresser, the tinsmith, the washer woman, the seamstress, the blacksmith, the carpenter, the kitchen, the shoemaker, the sharpener.

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Comments of Members

Beautiful ceiling and the replica of them bomb really puts you into the story of what happened here!

Majestic and even more picturesque at night!

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Mosta Rotunda

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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Explore the beauty of Malta, Gozo and Comino

Mosta Rotunda: A Must-Visit Architectural Wonder in Malta

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If you’re planning to visit the beautiful island of Malta, you can’t miss the magnificent Mosta Rotunda. It’s also known as the Mosta Dome.

I’ve been living in Malta since 2011. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Mosta Rotunda many times. It’s a remarkable architectural wonder. I’m excited to share my experience with you and provide all the details you need for your own visit.

This guide offers all you need to know about visiting the Mosta Rotunda in Malta. I’ll tell you about its history, architecture, and cultural significance. You’ll also find all the important details for your visit.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Mosta Rotunda?

First things first, let’s talk about why the Mosta Rotunda is an absolute must-see.

Architectural marvel: The Mosta Dome is an architectural marvel. It is a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture. It has a grand façade and an impressive dome. The dome ranks as the third-largest unsupported dome in Europe.

Rich history: The church has a rich history. Its most fascinating part is the miraculous event during World War II. A bomb pierced the dome during Mass but did not explode. This saved hundreds of lives.

Breathtaking interior: The Mosta Rotunda’s interior is breathtaking. It has intricate details, beautiful artwork, ornate carvings, sculptures, and paintings.

Panoramic views: Climbing the spiral staircase to the top of the dome offers breathtaking views. You can see the church inside and the town of Mosta.

Affordable entry fee: For just €5, you can explore this architectural gem, making it a budget-friendly attraction.

Free audio guide: You can use an audio guide to enhance your experience. It provides insights into the church’s history, architecture, and artworks.

World War II shelter: Your entry ticket also includes access to the World War II shelter beneath the church.

How to Get to the Mosta Rotunda

By bus : Mosta is well-connected to other parts of Malta by bus. The most convenient bus stop is “Rotunda,” which is just a few steps away from the church. Check Google Maps or the official Malta Public Transport website for routes and schedules.

By taxi: If you prefer a more direct and comfortable journey, you can opt for a taxi. Malta’s popular taxi apps include Uber, Bolt, and eCabs. Compare prices across these services to find the most affordable option for your trip to the Mosta Rotunda.

By car: Driving to the Mosta Rotunda is easy, as it is located in the center of Mosta. But, parking can be a bit challenging. There are several street parking options around the church, but spaces fill up.

Getting There:

• Location: Mosta Rotunda on Google Maps
• Nearest bus stop: Rotunda
• Walking distance from the bus stop : 1-2 minutes
• Frequency of the buses: varies depending on the route, but generally every 10-30 minutes
• Parking available: limited street parking around the church or further away in the town.

Visiting Mosta Rotunda

Opening hours and entry fee.

The Rotunda opens its doors at 9:00 am and closes around 5:00 pm . But, on Sundays, the church opens at midnight for those who wish to attend the early morning mass.

It’s always a good idea to double-check the opening times on their website before your visit to avoid any disappointment.

The entry fee is €5 and children up to 11 years old can enter for free.

Once you pay for your ticket, the attendant will provide you with a QR code to scan, which grants you access to an audio guide. The audio guide is in many languages, such as English, Spanish, Italian and more.

When your tour starts, you’ll see clear signs, marking each stage and subject. The audio guide will then lead you through these places. It will share interesting insights and stories.

Climbing to the Balcony

A highlight of the visit is climbing spiral stairs to the balcony. There, you can see the stunning dome up close. The stairs are also pretty, built from traditional Maltese limestone.

But, it’s important to note that the stairs are narrow and steep. They are too challenging for those with mobility issues or strollers.

When you step out onto the balcony, get ready to be impressed! The view of the dome is absolutely stunning, and you’ll be amazed by the intricate details and impressive craftsmanship.

Remember to take a look down as well! You’ll be wowed by the beautiful marble floor below. You’ll see that the floor pattern somewhat mirrors the design of the dome above.

Exploring the Interior of Mosta Dome

After taking in the views from the balcony, you’ll descend a different set of stairs on the other side of the church.

On the ground floor, explore the church’s interior. You’ll find many artworks, paintings, and sculptures. Most showcase Bible themes. Some are from famous artists, enhancing the church’s cultural value.

My favourite moment was standing in the church centre and looking up at the dome. The view is awe-inspiring. It reveals the Rotunda’s grandeur.

World War II History

Before concluding your visit, make sure to check out the side room where you can see the replica of the bomb that fell during World War II.

Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the World War II shelters.

The shelters are located outside the church, and you can reach them through a gate. To access them, you just need to walk down a few steps.

The shelter walls display photos and descriptions to help you learn more about Malta’s role in the Second World War. Additionally, there is a display featuring personal items of individuals who found shelter in these spaces.

The shelter visit is relatively short, as it primarily consists of one long corridor. But, it adds a unique and educational element to your Mosta Rotunda experience.

Food and Drink after Your Visit

After visiting the beautiful Mosta Rotunda, stop by the Dome’s cafe near the church. You’ll get a discount by showing your Rotunda ticket. The cafe offers Maltese pastizzi and sweets, including the honey ring called qagħaq tal-għasel.

Want more cafes in Mosta? Try Mumenti Espresso Bar and Kasa Kafe . Mumenti offers coffee, waffles, and smoothies. Meanwhile, Kasa Kafe is a charming spot with, in my opinion, the best coffee in Mosta.

In conclusion, visiting the Mosta Rotunda in Malta is a must. You’ll be surprised by its intricate details, beautiful artwork, and the impressive dome. 

If you love Malta’s amazing culture and history, I encourage you to explore my other guides. Check out my guide on historical places in Malta . Also, read my guide on Malta’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

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Mosta, Rabat & Mdina Medieval City Tour

Tour Images

Embark on a half-day tour starting at Mosta Basilica, known for its iconic dome. Explore Rabat's Roman history and enjoy a taste of traditional Maltese street food at 'is-Serkin'. The tour concludes in Mdina, the Medieval City, with its Baroque architecture and stunning views from the high bastion walls. Experience the charm of quaint alleys and ancient buildings on foot.

Scheduled to operate on Mondays

From €75.00 per person

Tour Highlights

• Maximum tour capacity is only 12 people
• Accompanied by an English-speaking Licensed Tour Guide
• Tasting experience, try Malta's favourite street food
• Visiting the Mosta Basilica and its iconic dome, the old town of Rabat, and a walking tour of the Medieval city of Mdina
• Entrance fee included into Mosta Basilica

Full description

This tour will take us into the very heart of central Malta. You will visit important landmarks and towns, learn more about the locals everyday life and important historical facts that have influenced the Maltese people to whom they are today.

We start with a visit to the magnificent Mosta Dome church. This is one of the most iconic buildings in Malta with its magnificent dome, considered to be one of the largest unsupported domes in the World. But Mosta Dome is known to locals as the miracle church! During one of the frequent WWII air raids, a bomb pierced the dome, falling inside the church during a service, but failed to explode. The locals hailed this as a miracle. You can see a replica of the bomb during your visit. 

Our next stop is the old town of Rabat. The history of Rabat is linked to the period of the Romans (218 BC to 879 BC) and Saint Paul, who stayed for a short period after being shipwrecked, whilst on his way to be tried in Rome. The locals claim the origins of Maltese Christianity started here when the saint preached to them. During our visit of Rabat your guide will walk you along the main street, which is adorned by typical village architecture. You will see quaint houses with traditional balconies and doors, small local shops, the band club premises and other important aspects of local village and town life. During our short walk your guide will include a brief stop at 'Is-Sirkien', which is the most famous 'pastizzeria' on the island, you will have the opportunity to taste our favourite street food called 'pastizzi'. These are diamond shaped filo pastry parcels filled with mashed peas or ricotto cheese, they are delicious. 

And, as saying goes, "save the best till last". The medieval city of Mdina is our islands pride and joy!. It is built on a plateau in the centre of the island, the city's old Baroque buildings, cathedral and magnificent bastion walls dominate the rural skyline. Mdina, once the capital of Malta until the modern city of Valletta was built in 1566 has had many names including Melite (Roman occupation), Medina (Arabic occupation), Citta Notabile and Citta Vecchia (after Valletta was built). Today it is also referred as the Silent City, since it inspires tranquillity at any time of the day or night. The only way to really experience and enjoy this city is on foot, explore the quaint alleys, narrow streets, ancient buildings and incredible far reaching views from the high bastion walls. 

Tour itinerary and route map

1300hrs depart for afternoon tour 1330hrs Mosta Dome 1430hrs Rabat and tasting experience 1520hrs Mdina Medieval City 1630hrs depart Mdina 1700hrs arrive back in Valletta Times are for guidance only

Meeting place/Departure point

This tour starts and ends in Valletta and details will appear on the confirmation which you will receive after booking. If you are not staying in Valletta and would like to join this tour, we can arrange transport to bring you to the meeting point. Get in touch via our Contact Us page.

Good to know before you book

A Tasting Experience is all about trying local food and drink, so, modified versions of the food item are not considered as a genuine Tasting Experience. Therefore, unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that there is an alternative to what is offered. Tasting experiences are small tasting samples, such as a savory pastry, a scoop of ice cream, freshly baked local biscuits, etc... Tasting experiences do not replace what you would normally have as a lunch.

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Mosta, Rabat & Mdina Medieval City Tour, start at , on

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Standard Cancellation Policy If you must cancel your booking due to a situation beyond your control, see our Full Refund Guarantee below. For other cancellations, the following guidelines apply: If you cancel your booking up to [DATE_BEFORE_7_DAYS], you will receive a full refund, less a 10% admin fee. If you cancel between [DATE_BEFORE_6_DAYS], and [DATE_BEFORE_3_DAYS], before the tour date, you will receive a 50% refund. If you cancel between [DATE_BEFORE_2_DAYS] and the tour day, or you are a 'no show' on the tour day, you will not receive a refund. Full Refund Guarantee You will receive a full refund if you are forced to cancel due to a situation beyond your control, as follows: The cruise liner changes the itinerary before your cruise departs, and you will not be visiting Malta. Please advise us as soon as possible, and no later than the departure date of your cruise, OR The airline has changed or cancelled your flight and you will not arrive in Malta in time to join the tour. You will receive a full refund provided you advise us before [DATE_BEFORE_1_DAY], OR You have been advised that you will not arrive in Malta due to bad weather conditions, which will prevent your flight or cruise ship from arriving. You will receive a full refund provided you advise us by before 1900hrs (local time in Malta) on [DAY_BEFORE_1_DAY].  Note!     The Full Refund Guarantee does not apply if you cancel due to a medical reason, see our standard Cancellation Policy above. We highly recommend that you obtain adequate travel insurance coverage.    Cancellations must be managed from the login area. The deadline dates and times mentioned above are relevant to the time as it will be in Malta, at the time you activate a cancellation. Malta is located in the Central European Time zone. For Full Refund Guarantee cancellations, you will be requested to provide proof of the reason for cancellation.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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