Russia 2012: St. Petersburg Cathedrals

The mosaics in Church on Spilt Blood are incredibly intricate and beautiful.

Kate inside Church on Spilt Blood.

Anna inside Church on Spilt Blood

Church on Spilt Blood - ever inch beautifully adorned.

The actual location of the assassination of  Tsar Alexander II.

Guide Natasha explaining to all what happened - another reminder to Anna why being royalty isn't always good.

Looking up at Church on Spilt Blood - the central domes were always a treat to see - absolutely beautiful.

Entry doors to Saint Isaac's Cathedral.

Inside Saint Isaac's Cathedral - pictures don't do justice to St. Petersburg's largest cathedral.

Inside Saint Isaac's Cathedral

One Mosaic to be raised to the dome of the Cathedral - the detail of these mosaics was incredible.

Saint Isaac's Cathedral.

Saint Isaac's icons.

Kate outside Church of Spilt Blood - the city is beautiful.

Outside Church on Spilt Blood.

Church on Spilt Blood.

Church on Spilt Blood at night - magnificent.

Family in front of Kazan Cathedral - one of Steve's favorites.

The adaption of the Byzantine Orthodox religion by Vladimir I in 988 was a profound turning point in Russian history for many reasons. It is said that Vladimir's appreciation of the beauty of the icons and architecture of the churches influenced his decision to choose Orthodox over other religions. We can understand why. We have seen many Byzantine cathedrals and churches before and they can be simply spectacular. The cathedrals in St. Petersburg are no different - from the Church on Spilt Blood, to St. Isaacs, to Peter and Paul - each cathedral is uniquely beautiful. Entering these places is a breathtaking experience - one cannot help feeling awestruck. The gilded domes dot the St. Petersburg landscape, adding to the uniqueness of the city skyline.