Church of the Intercession on the Nerl: an amazing combination of natural and man-made

In the Vladimir region, less than two kilometers from Bogolyubov, stands a unique white-stone temple, which is a monument of architecture. This is the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl, located on the meadow, in the place where the Nerl connects with the Klyazma. In spring, water covers almost all the surrounding space, so you can get here only by helicopter or boat. However, the place for the construction of this temple was not chosen by chance: in those distant times he was at the crossroads of trade routes and was a kind of gateway to the Vladimir land.

This creation was built in 1165 (according to some sources in 1158) total For a few months.

The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl was built in honor of the sacred Russian holiday - the Intercession of the Virgin. This holiday was celebrated by the Vladimir clergy as evidence of the special patronage of the Virgin to the land of Vladimir. According to the legend, which found its reflection in the Life of Andrei Bogolyubsky, a white stone for construction work was brought by Andrei Bogolyubsky from the conquered Bulgarian kingdom. By design, the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is a simple enough structure, which is a one-domed four-pillar cruciform temple. However, it is distinguished from other religious buildings by the artistic image added by the builders.

The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is surrounded by mystery. Its very appearance is considered perfect. The ideal combination of man-made and brought by nature is reflected in the elegance of buildings, as well as in the surrounding nature. The walls of the temple are decorated with plot carvings on the stone. For example, on one of the planes one can see the figure of King David with the psaltery (this is the oldest musical instrument). It is surrounded by all kinds of Birds and beasts, mesmerized by divine music. From the walls of the building look at us girlish faces. This motif is one of the most valuable in the church decor. According to the conducted studies, it was necessary three and a half years to create this creation.

The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is on a low hill that was erected artificially. This was done in order to protect the structure from the spring waters. During the archaeological works, the secret of the hill was discovered. First, the foundation was paved with cobblestone using a lime mortar. On the foundation were erected walls that were covered with clay soil. Thus, the underground part of the structure has a height of 5.30 m.

The Church of the Intercession works only in the summer. Then he hospitably opens his doors, including to tourists.

So much time has passed since the Church of the Intercession of the Virgin was built on the Nerl ... Several times it was tried to disassemble, it was flooded during spills, was repaired ... However, it stands to this day and looks silently at natural changes and passing generations, remaining The same as eight centuries ago.