Church of the Intercession Fili
A breathtaking 17th-century Naryshkin Baroque church, famed for its unique architecture and historic interior murals.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Church of the Intercession Fili
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 17th-century Naryshkin Baroque church, famed for its unique architecture and historic interior murals.
"A beautiful building in which there is a museum and a temple on one of the tiers. A beautiful location for photos and videos."
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
This church is a photographer's dream! Capture its unique architecture from every angle.
🚶♀️ Easy Metro Access
Conveniently located within walking distance of the Fili metro station.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Naryshkin Baroque Architecture
Exterior
A masterpiece of 17th-century Russian architecture, often compared to Versailles.

Historic Murals
Interior
Discover original, centuries-old murals that adorn the church's interior walls.

Carved Iconostasis
Upper Church
Admire the stunningly beautiful carved iconostasis by Karp Zolotarev.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Church's Dual Role
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
This church is a photographer's dream! Capture its unique architecture from every angle.
🚶♀️ Easy Metro Access
Conveniently located within walking distance of the Fili metro station.
🕰️ Check Upper Church Hours
The upper church is a museum and only open seasonally (May 15 - Oct 15).
🙏 Respectful Visits
Remember it's an active place of worship. Be mindful of services.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
This church is a photographer's dream! Capture its unique architecture from every angle.
🚶♀️ Easy Metro Access
Conveniently located within walking distance of the Fili metro station.
🕰️ Check Upper Church Hours
The upper church is a museum and only open seasonally (May 15 - Oct 15).
🙏 Respectful Visits
Remember it's an active place of worship. Be mindful of services.
🚁 Drone Photography (Check Rules)
Consider a drone for unique aerial shots, but be aware of local regulations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Church of the Intercession in Fili for its stunning Naryshkin Baroque architecture and beautiful interior details, particularly the historic murals and carved iconostasis. Many appreciate its unique design and photogenic qualities, noting its striking contrast with modern Moscow. However, a recurring concern is the church's apparent need for restoration, with many hoping for future preservation efforts.
"Wonderful and beautiful church, hopefully will be in line soon for a renovation."
Ivan Petrovic
"An old and well-preserved temple with a small green area around. It is located within walking distance from the Fili metro station. It stands out from the surrounding buildings, especially against the backdrop of Moscow City. A beautiful building in which there is a museum and a temple on one of the tiers. A beautiful location for photos and videos. Weddings and baptisms are also held here. There is something to see. If you take a quadcopter with you, you can take a full picture of all this beauty from above, because you can’t see such a complete picture from the ground)))..
The current building of the temple was erected in 1690-1694 with funds from Lev Naryshkin (brother of Tsarina Natalia Kirillovna). The wooden temple of the same name that previously stood here was built in 1619, when the village belonged to the Miloslavskys, to commemorate the victory over the troops of the Polish prince Vladislav and Hetman Sahaidachny under the walls of the White City.
The Church of the Intercession in Fili is a five-tiered centric church built in the Naryshkin Baroque style. The church building with a four-petal plan of the two lower tiers is surrounded at the basement level by an arcade of the promenade. Three wide open porches lead to it from three sides. One building combines a winter and a summer church and a bell tower. The bells hang in the spans of the upper, fifth tier. On the first floor (basement) was the winter (heated) Church of the Intercession of the Holy Mother of God, and above it the Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands, which was named in gratitude for saving Lev Naryshkin from death during the Streltsy rebellion (he prayed before this icon during the rebellion). Peter I granted four hundred chervonets for the decoration of the church. In 1703, after the capture of Narva, Peter I brought his uncle stained glass windows as a gift for his church. As a sign of the owner's closeness to the Tsar, the central and western domes of the temple were decorated with a crown and a double-headed eagle. According to legend, Tsar Peter I visited this temple many times."
Alex Soloviev
"A very beautiful church, currently an architectural monument. But for some reason the Russian Orthodox Church, instead of building new churches from scratch en masse, would be better off first restoring those churches that have not yet fallen apart and are standing on this land. Why make a building an architectural monument and hand the building over to an organization that is not able to look after it. When everything is built competently and tastefully next to or inside the church, they don't build like that now, you want to examine every detail. It's amazing why there are still such buildings in such a sad state in the very center of the country. I wonder, when believers look at such a state of the church, are the feelings of believers not offended?"
Владимир Полевой
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of the Intercession in Fili is easily accessible via the Moscow Metro. Take the Filyovskaya Line to the Fili station. From there, it's a short, pleasant walk to the church.
Parking can be challenging in this area. It's generally recommended to use public transport. If you must drive, look for street parking, but be prepared for limited availability.
While it's a bit of a walk, the church offers a striking contrast to the modern Moscow City skyline. The walk is scenic and can be a good option for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
For the best photographic angles, consider arriving by metro and walking. This allows you to capture the church's grandeur against its surroundings without the hassle of parking.
Using the metro is highly recommended for ease of access and to avoid parking issues. The walk from Fili station is straightforward and allows you to appreciate the approach to the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the lower church, where services are held, is generally free. The upper church functions as a museum and may have an admission fee or require a ticket, especially during its open season. It's best to check on-site or their official website for current policies.
Services are held year-round in the lower church. The upper church, which is a museum, is typically open from May 15 to October 15. Hours can vary, so it's advisable to confirm them before your visit.
The lower church is open year-round for services. The upper church, functioning as a museum, has seasonal opening hours, usually from mid-May to mid-October.
Yes, the lower church is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend services. Please be respectful of the ongoing religious activities.
As an active religious site and historical monument, visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Photography rules may apply, especially during services.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always best to check for specific signs or ask church officials. Be particularly mindful of restrictions during services.
The exterior offers stunning views, especially with the Moscow City skyline in the background. Inside, the iconostasis and murals are prime subjects. Consider a drone for unique aerial perspectives, if permitted.
While some visitors have mentioned using drones for aerial shots, it's crucial to check current regulations regarding drone usage in Moscow and near historical sites. Always prioritize safety and legality.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for both exterior and interior shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the church's scale. A tripod might be helpful for low-light interior shots, but check if it's allowed.
Visit during the 'golden hour' for beautiful light on the exterior. Inside, focus on details of the murals and the intricate iconostasis. Be patient to capture moments without many people.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The church is a prime example of Naryshkin Baroque, a distinct Russian architectural style that flourished in the late 17th century. It's known for its ornate decoration and unique forms.
The current building was erected between 1690 and 1694, funded by Lev Naryshkin. It replaced an earlier wooden church from 1619.
It was built to commemorate a victory and holds significance for the Naryshkin family, with ties to Tsar Peter I. Its architecture also reflects influences and innovations of its time.
Yes, its five-tiered, centric design and the arrangement of its domes (strictly according to cardinal points, suggesting Ukrainian influence) are notable. The arcade promenade around the lower tier is also distinctive.
The church is named 'Intercession of the Holy Mother of God,' commemorating the protection of the Virgin Mary. The name is linked to the historical context of its founding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting when the upper church is open as a museum, as this might offer more to explore. However, be mindful of the church's dual role as an active place of worship; ensure children understand the need for quiet and respectful behavior. The walk from the Fili metro station is manageable, making it an accessible outing. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly at the church may be limited.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the historic murals and the carved iconostasis offer incredible detail and texture. Visiting during the 'golden hour' can yield magical light for exterior shots. While drone photography is mentioned as a possibility for unique aerial views, always verify local regulations before flying. Be prepared for varying light conditions inside and consider bringing versatile lenses to capture both grand vistas and intricate details.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Aficionados
Pay close attention to the architectural influences, such as the dome placement, which sparks debate and offers insights into cultural exchanges of the era. The church's status as an architectural monument underscores its importance. While the need for restoration is noted, the existing structure still speaks volumes about the craftsmanship and artistic vision of the late 17th century.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Splendor of Naryshkin Baroque
Visitors often marvel at how the church's design, with its strictly aligned domes, hints at Ukrainian architectural influences, a point of discussion among historians. This unique arrangement, differing from the traditional diagonal placement in Russian churches, adds another layer to its historical and cultural significance. The building itself is a harmonious blend of a winter and summer church, complete with a bell tower, showcasing a practical yet aesthetically pleasing design.
Despite its architectural brilliance, many reviews highlight the church's need for restoration. The sentiment is that such a significant monument deserves meticulous care to preserve its beauty for future generations. The contrast between its historical grandeur and its current state is a recurring theme, prompting discussions about heritage preservation.
A Glimpse Inside: Art and Devotion
The stunningly beautiful carved iconostasis, attributed to Karp Zolotarev, is another highlight. This intricate masterpiece, carved by Belarusian craftsmen, serves as a focal point in the upper church. Its detailed artistry and spiritual significance are frequently praised by visitors, who describe it as a breathtaking element of the church's interior.
It's important to remember that the lower church remains an active place of worship. Visitors are welcome to attend services, but should do so with respect for the ongoing religious activities. The dual nature of the church as both a museum and a spiritual sanctuary adds a unique dimension to the visitor experience.
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