The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, in Yalta, is one of many such named cathedrals. A number of cathedrals with the name 'Alexander Nevsky' were built in countries like Ukraine, Israel and Russia. These buildings were built during the rule of either Alexander II or Alexander III of Russia to celebrate them as leaders. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral situated in Yalta, a beautiful seaside resort, was built in the early twentieth century, in 1902.

Yalta, a resort found in Crimea, provides a beautiful setting for this magnificent cathedral. In the background there are lush, green mountains that help emphasize this richly ornamented cathedral with its golden domes. At the base of the mountain you can see acres of grape vines all full of fruit during much of the year. Of course, one cannot forget the rocky beaches found along Yalta's coast, which provides a noticeable contrast to rest of the fertile landscape that surrounds it.

As mentioned before, Alexander Nevsky is the patron of the cathedral and was the Grand Prince of Vladimir and Novgorod, son of Prince Yaroslav Vsevolodovich. Alexander Nevsky played an important military role and was a key figure during turbulent times in Russia. He helped Russia win many military victories and because of this he became a celebrated figure and was later given sainthood.

Saint Alexander Nevsky was born in Pereslavl-Zalessky and was one of four boys. This would have meant that there was little or no chance of Alexander becoming the next Prince of Novgorod. Then unexpectedly, in 1236, the Novgorodians made him Prince and in doing so he immediately became a military leader. At this point the Germans and the Swedish were on the attack so it was vital that a good leader, like Nevsky, was appointed. This proved to be a good move and soon both the Swedes and the Germans were defeated preventing what could have been a full-scale invasion.

Later, in 1252, Alexander was made Grand Prince of Vladimir. This appointment was more than just a title it meant that Alexander Nevsky was now the supreme ruler of Russia. He ruled for ten years before he died in Gorodets-on-the-Volga, a town on his way home from the capital city. His burial took place in Vladimir and it was then when the Russian Orthodox Church gave Alexander Nevsky sainthood.

Walking around Yalta town, one of the sights that you will not miss is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Even during the bright daylight, its onion domes light the skyline like giant high-powered golden light bulbs and make for great photo opportunities.

If you’ve been to other parts of Russia, Bulgaria and other eastern European cities, you’ll see many cathedrals named after this saint. These cathedrals were built during the reign of Alexander II of Russia to honour this great man. The Cathedral in Yalta was built in 1902 and sits on the hillside overlooking the beautiful Yalta Bay area .

So who is Alexander Nevsky and why is he revered in so many countries? Alexander Nevsky was the son of Prince Yaroslav Vsevolodovich. As he was one of four sons, he stood little chance of becoming the next Prince of Novgorod. His fortune changed in 1236 when the Novgorodians annointed him as a prince and in so doing he became a military leader. He played an important military role and helped Russia win many military battles.

In 1252 he was made Grand Prince of Vladimir. This appointment elevated Alexander Nevsky to now become the supreme ruler of Russia. He ruled for ten years before dying in Gorodets-on-the-Volga. His burial took place in Vladimir and it was then that the Russian Orthodox church pronounced Alexander Nevsky a saint.

Unfortunately for us, when we arrived, the Cathedral had already closed. When I saw someone entering the cathedral I tried asking for a quick peak inside, but to no avail. Nevertheless, the exterior of the building was pretty impressive and the building and the artwork around it are still in imaculate condition. On the side is an alcove with a beautiful painting of Alexander himself.

From the Bay area, it’s possible to reach the Cathedral through a nice park which is a much easier route than going on the main road.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must see when visiting Yalta. You can get there after a flight to Simferopol.