Diary of Marie Bashkirtseff

Issakie Cathedral (Saint Isaac's Cathedral)

Also known as: Issakie Cathedral (Saint Isaac's Cathedral), Saint Isaac's Cathedral, Issakie Cathedral

Places · Churches
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Research Status: Basic Last Updated: 2026-02-10 Diary Coverage: References in connection with St. Petersburg

Overview

Saint Isaac's Cathedral (Isaakievskiy Sobor), referred to by Marie as "Issakie," is the largest cathedral in St. Petersburg and one of the largest domed buildings in the world. Built over 40 years (1818-1858) by architect Auguste de Montferrand, it is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture, decorated with hundreds of artworks, columns of malachite and lapis lazuli, and gold-plated dome visible across the city.

Historical Context

  • Built: 1818-1858, the fourth church on the site dedicated to Saint Isaac of Dalmatia
  • Architect: Auguste de Montferrand (a Frenchman, which adds interest for Marie's French-Russian world)
  • Scale: One of the largest cathedrals in the world, with a capacity of 14,000
  • The dome: Gilded with over 100 kg of gold, a landmark of the St. Petersburg skyline
  • Interior: Mosaics, paintings, and precious stone columns

Significance for Marie

  • Russian grandeur: One of the supreme monuments of Russian imperial ambition
  • Architectural wonder: A landmark of the St. Petersburg Marie's family knew
  • French-Russian connections: Designed by a French architect, symbolizing the cultural links between France and Russia

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