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Chapel by Kamolon Gates

Chapel of St. George the Victorious in the first years after construction.
Chapel of St. George the Victorious in the first years after construction.

The Chapel near the Kamolon gates in Tashkent, known as Saint Alexander Nevsky Chapel, is a Russian Orthodox chapel established during the era of the Russian Empire. This chapel is historically and culturally significant as it reflects the diverse religious landscape of Tashkent, influenced by the various ethnic groups that have lived in the region, including Russians.

Historical Context

The presence of the Russian Orthodox Church in Uzbekistan can be traced back to the expansion of the Russian Empire into Central Asia in the 19th century. Today it is the oldest monument of pre-revolutionary Orthodox confession in Tashkent.

A chapel was built in 1866 on the common grave of 24 ordinary Russian soldiers killed during the attack of Tashkent under the command of General Chernyaev in June 1865.

With the annexation of the region, many Russians, including military personnel, traders, and officials, settled in key cities like Tashkent. To serve the spiritual needs of the Russian Orthodox community, churches and chapels were established throughout the region.

In 1865, a tombstone with the inscription “To ours friends” (“Za drugi svoya” in Russian) was set over a mass grave, and a monument- three pyramids of mortar cannon balls were erected. A year later, a chapel was built, which in the Orthodox tradition was decorated with Slavic inscriptions from the Old and New Testaments.

It is dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky, a celebrated Russian military hero and saint of the Orthodox Church. This dedication is a reminder of the Russian influence on the city during this historical period.

Architecture and Design

The chapel exhibits the features typical of Russian Orthodox ecclesiastical architecture:

  • Dome: Capped with a recognizable onion-shaped dome and cross, which is emblematic of Russian Orthodox churches.
  • Exterior: The façade of the chapel is usually straightforward, retaining a modest and functional look rather than extensive decoration.
  • Interior: The chapel interior includes traditional Russian Orthodox iconography, with icons and other sacred art, which is integral to the worship practice.

Religious Function

The Saint Alexander Nevsky Chapel, like other Orthodox chapels, serves as a place of prayer and worship. The chapel holds services according to the Julian calendar, which is traditionally followed by the Russian Orthodox Church:

  • Divine Liturgy: The central act of worship in the Orthodox tradition, analogous to the Mass in the Catholic Church.
  • Feast Days: Observance of traditional Orthodox Christian feasts, such as the feast day of Saint Alexander Nevsky.
  • Sacraments: Conducting sacraments, including Baptism, Eucharist, Confession, Matrimony, and others following Orthodox Christian rites.

Current Status and Cultural Significance

The chapel continues to cater to the spiritual needs of the Russian Orthodox faithful in Tashkent. In a country where Islam is the predominant religion, the presence of the Orthodox chapel signifies a historical confluence of cultures and the ongoing religious diversity in the region. The continuation of Russian Orthodox practices also maintains the connection between ethnic Russians in Uzbekistan and their cultural heritage.

Visitation

Visitors interested in seeing the chapel can often do so during open hours, and it can provide insights into the religious practices of a community that has been a part of Tashkent’s history for over a century. Tours may be self-guided or possibly part of a broader exploration of the city’s historical sites.

As with any place of worship, visitors should be mindful of the dress code, norms, and customs appropriate to the Orthodox Church, especially if visiting during a service. It’s also advisable to check for any specific visitor information or restrictions prior to arrival, as the operational status of religious buildings can sometimes change.

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