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Saint Basil’s cathedral and Spasskaya Tower on Red Square, Moscow, Russia

Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, more commonly known as Saint Basil’s Cathedral, is an iconic Russian church that is also one of the most unique structures in the world.


Now functioning as a museum rather than a place of worship, it was ordered by Ivan the Terrible in 1552, commemorating the capture of Kazan from Mongol forces. Completed in 1560, not much is known about its builders, Barma and Postnik Yakovlev, but legend has it that Ivan blinded them so that they could never again create something so beautiful for anyone else.



Dubious legends aside, this cathedral, known for its diverse array of vivid colors, was once all white, featuring golden onion domes. Many additions have been made to the building in its long history, including a new bell tower build in the 17th century, new roofing, and decorated domes. Finally it was 1860 that saw the cathedral’s re-painting, creating the visual splendor we see today.