Hello everybody! Belarus is a country full of different places of worship. Many localities of the country have their own shrine. According to official statistics, there are more than 2,800 religious buildings of various denominations in Belarus. Quite a lot for a small country, right? The age of the temples is directly related to how old the city or village is. Although in rare cases there are exceptions. For example, in young cities such as Svetlogorsk there is an ancient Catholic church and a young Orthodox church. Walking on a sunny day, the luminous golden domes of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord attracted my attention. Studying churches is one of my favorite architectural hobbies.
Interestingly, the temple is hidden between the gray high-rise buildings of the city. Despite the unusual location, I like to see the sight hidden behind the "wrap" of unremarkable architecture. Probably the main element that distinguishes Orthodox churches is the high golden domes. Believers believe that the golden color on the domes symbolizes eternity and heavenly glory. By the way, some people draw a parallel between the golden domes and the gifts brought by the Magi to little Jesus. The Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord has a five-domed system. In the center is a massive central dome symbolizing Christ, and four small ones - four evangelists around. The church has three vestibules: central and lateral, which are also crowned with small domes.
The Svetlogorsk Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord dates back to 1995, but the first parishioners crossed its threshold only in 2006. If you look at the temple building from above, you will find that it has the shape of a cross. The cross-arch system of the temple indicates belonging to the Byzantine or retrospective-Russian style. Among the most important elements of the style are typical architectural elements - zakomara (semicircular completion of the facade) and arched windows. The height of the Church of the Transfiguration is 33 meters, which is equal to the height of a 10 or 11-storey residential building. Width and length are 30 meters, which is also quite a lot.
The reverse side of the Temple has three semicircular apses. In this place is located the altar part of the building. Unfortunately, I was forbidden to go inside to take pictures of the interior of the church. Although it is not formally prohibited, this is not the first time I have come across such a ban against a camera.
Among other things, inside the church there are additional buildings and a small playground. One of these buildings is an administrative building. Its main distinguishing element can be called a small tower with a bell tower. During the construction of the temple, this building had the function of a temporary prayer house.
Nearby is a small water-blessing chapel "Life-Giving Spring". It was built in honor of the Mother of God and is a source of pure holy water. On sacred holidays, many people with empty bottles can be seen around the chapel.
On the territory, I found another small but important element - the sign “Remember. Live. Be next to". It is established in memory of people living with HIV and those who died from AIDS. The ribbon on the sign stands for the Vesimr symbol of solidarity with those affected by this issue. The inscription on the sign calls for the correct Christian attitude towards these people.
The Church of the Holy Transfiguration of the Lord deservedly bears the title of the religious pearl of Svetlogorsk. This place is regularly visited by parishioners from all over the area. Location away from noisy roads allows you to enjoy the peace and comfort while exploring the architecture of the temple. Alas, I could not show you the interior, but I hope you managed to enjoy the exterior of this majestic temple.
Photo information:
Author: @danny.green
Camera: Nikon D5200
Location: Svetlogorsk, Belarus
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