Saint Alexis Church (圣·阿列克谢耶夫教堂), built in 1931, is a prominent Orthodox church located in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. Covering an area of 1,005 square meters, it showcases typical Russian architectural styles. In 1980, after renovations, the church was repurposed as a Catholic church and now serves as the headquarters for the Patriotic Association of Catholicism in Heilongjiang Province, the Harbin Catholic Patriotic Association, and the Heilongjiang Provincial Catholic Affairs Committee.
Originally constructed as a military chapel for Princess Ling, the church was relocated several times alongside the Russian army, finally settling in the Alekseyevka Village (Dongxiangfang). As the eastern bridge over the Songhua River was completed and docks were established, many residents from the old city (Xiangfang) moved to the Majiagou area, prompting another move of the church to No. 44, Church Street (Gexin Street). The original wooden structure built in 1912-1913 was later transformed into a brick and stone church between 1935 and 1936, resulting in a unique architectural layout that seamlessly combines both buildings. The brick church, designed by architects Smirnov and Taushtanovsky, is grand and eye-catching.
Saint Alexis Church exemplifies traditional Russian church architecture. Inside, it features three altars supported by four pillars beneath a circular roof. The pillars separate the sanctuary from the nave, with icons depicting teachings above them. The church’s exterior is striking and complex, characterized by rich angular wall designs in alternating red and white. The bell tower has a tent-like roof, while the main entrance features a dome in the traditional onion shape, creating a harmonious and vibrant combination of styles. Covering an area of 5,773 square meters, the church can accommodate over a thousand attendees. Notably, it houses exquisite frescoes by icon painter Sadrokini, with a particularly delicate depiction of the Virgin Mary.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 30 minutes |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 -15.00 |
Location and Transportation
Saint Alexis Church is located at 47 Shike Street, Nangang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 7, 8, 17, 18, 62, 63, 87, 109, 121, 202, 267, or 386 and get off at Gexin Street Stop (革新街站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Saint Alexis Church is Workers’ Cultural Palace (工人文化宫) on line 2. After getting out of the station from Exit 2, walk about 350 meters to the northeast to reach the attraction.
