Co-Cathedral of the Assumption
A historic Catholic church in Kharkiv, known for its beautiful architecture, stunning ceiling art, and serene spiritual atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Co-Cathedral of the Assumption
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Catholic church in Kharkiv, known for its beautiful architecture, stunning ceiling art, and serene spiritual atmosphere.
"Amazing as usual is every house of god, while its simple in ornements yet it hold breathtaking ceiling paints and architecture. "
📸 Free Photo Ops
The doors are always open for tourists, and it's a fantastic spot for photography.
🙏 Respectful Visits
Be mindful of ongoing services and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Ceiling Art
Interior
Breathtaking ceiling paintings and architecture that inspire awe and elation.
Architectural Grandeur
Exterior and Interior
Admire the interesting architecture and statues, a testament to its rich history.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Interior
Experience a strong presence of the holy spirit in this cozy and neat house of God.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Free Entry & Photography
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Free Photo Ops
The doors are always open for tourists, and it's a fantastic spot for photography.
🙏 Respectful Visits
Be mindful of ongoing services and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor inside.
📍 Location Context
It's a united temple within a big city, offering a peaceful escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Free Photo Ops
The doors are always open for tourists, and it's a fantastic spot for photography.
🙏 Respectful Visits
Be mindful of ongoing services and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor inside.
📍 Location Context
It's a united temple within a big city, offering a peaceful escape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Co-Cathedral of the Assumption for its beautiful architecture, stunning ceiling art, and peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. Many appreciate that entry is free and it's a great spot for photography. Some note it's not yet a major city landmark but offers a serene experience.
"Interesting architecture of the building. This temple is still united in a big city. Unfortunately, this temple has not yet become a viscid city card. Here you can make file pictures. I recommend to visit. The temple doors are always open for tourists. Entrance to the temple is free.
Since 1773, about 100 foreigners have lived in Kharkiv, some of whom were Catholics. Their number increased significantly at the beginning of the 19th century. after the opening of the University. Many teachers from Western Europe were invited: French, Germans, Poles ...
In 1829, a Franciscan monk, Fr. Gemillion Chaplynsky, who becomes the first rector of the Roman Catholic parish. On February 19, 1830, the community headed by O. Chaplynsky bought two yard plots on the street. Malaya Sumskaya (now Gogol street). At the time of the Kharkiv Fortress, this territory was used for powder depots.
Already on October 1, 1832, the consecration of the first Kharkiv Roman Catholic Church of the Rosary of the Virgin of the Virgin took place. In September 1862, the church community acquired the organ. The first organist was Ivan Dombrovsky, a music teacher. He lived at the church for over 20 years.
In 1880, a major overhaul of the church building was carried out (the foundation and walls were strengthened), but the Catholic community needs a new church. The decision to build it was made in 1882. In 1886, permits were obtained from the Mogilev consistory and the Kharkiv governor.
On December 15, 1891, the new church was consecrated by Fr. Kisarzhevsky. The priests were invited: one from Poltava and one from Kursk.
For the first 17 years of the XX century. in the Kharkiv Roman Catholic parish of the Dormition of the Mother of God, 3 abbots and 16 vicars have changed.
With the seizure of power by the Bolsheviks in 1917 and the Moscow occupation of Ukraine, difficult times of repression began for the parish believers.
During the Second World War (with the arrival of German troops), the temple resumes its activities. The service was ruled by a priest from the Baltic States; unfortunately, there was no permanent priest in Kharkiv. Believers of Kharkiv Catholics reached out to the church. But after the occupation troops entered the city USSR the temple is closed again.
In 1945, the Kharkiv Catholic Church was finally closed by the Soviet occupiers. Since that time, old films have been kept in the church premises. Walls grow inside the church, the internal space is divided into two floors.
Since the fall of the occupation regime of the USSR, in 1990 the church is being resurrected! A small group of believers gradually began to form. The temple is already decorated with frescoes; in the altar, two bronze statues of the Chief Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, the cement foundation was laid under the slabs for the floor, the bells begin to ring on the tower. In 2004, the external restoration work was completed, and on March 24, 2007, the internal restoration of the church was finally completed."
Poseidónas Greek
"Very nice Catholic Church, cozy and neat, with beautiful architecture and statues."
Dmytro Niemtsev
"Amazing as usual is every house of god, while its simple in ornements compared to orthodox churches yet it hold breathtaking ceiling paints and architecture, the prayers are elating with the presence of nuns and monks, strong presence of holy spirit!!!!"
Leba Shehadeh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Co-Cathedral is located within the city. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's described as a 'united temple in a big city,' suggesting it's accessible via local transport or a short taxi ride. It's recommended to use local navigation apps for the most up-to-date routes.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce. Given its urban location, street parking or nearby public parking garages are likely options. It's advisable to check local parking apps or inquire upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entrance to the Co-Cathedral is free for all tourists. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction.
The temple doors are described as 'always open for tourists,' implying it's generally accessible. However, for specific hours, especially around religious services, it's best to check local listings or inquire directly.
Yes, photography is permitted inside the Co-Cathedral. It's a popular spot for taking file pictures due to its beautiful architecture and ceiling art.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors describe the atmosphere as elating, with a strong presence of the holy spirit. It's noted as being cozy, neat, and peaceful, offering a spiritual experience.
The Co-Cathedral boasts interesting architecture, beautiful statues, and breathtaking ceiling paintings. The interior is simple in ornamentation compared to some Orthodox churches, yet holds significant artistic merit.
Absolutely. Many visitors find it to be a serene and neat place, perfect for quiet contemplation and appreciating its spiritual ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
The ceiling art is a major highlight for photographers, offering stunning visuals. The intricate statues and overall architectural details also provide excellent photo opportunities.
While photography is generally allowed, it's always wise to be discreet and avoid flash photography during services or when it might disturb worshippers.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Over time, the community's needs outgrew the original structure, leading to the decision to build a new church in 1882. The current church was consecrated in 1891. However, the parish faced severe repression under the Bolsheviks after 1917, and the temple was eventually closed by Soviet authorities in 1945, with its premises used for storing old films and divided into two floors.
Following the fall of the USSR, the church began its resurrection in 1990. A small group of believers worked to restore the temple, redecorating it with frescoes, adding statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, and laying the foundation for new flooring. External restoration was completed in 2004, and internal restoration concluded in 2007, bringing the Co-Cathedral back to its former glory.
Architectural and Artistic Significance
The interior, though restored, retains a sense of historical grandeur. The presence of frescoes and significant statues, such as those of St. Peter and St. Paul, adds to its sacred atmosphere. The building's resilience, having been closed and repurposed before its revival, imbues it with a unique character that resonates with visitors seeking both architectural beauty and a sense of enduring faith.

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