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St. Alexander Nevsky Church: A Gem of Russian Orthodox Heritage in Central Copenhagen

Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, famed for its golden onion domes, rich history, and unique architectural style rooted in Danish-Russian royal ties.

St. Alexander Nevsky Church stands as Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, instantly recognizable for its iconic gold onion domes. Built in 1881 by the Russian Imperial family, it remains a place of worship and a fascinating cultural landmark. Visitors are captivated by its ornate interiors, historic icons, and the unique sense of serenity it offers in the city’s heart.

A brief summary to Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn

  • Copenhagen, Indre By, 1051, DK

Local tips

  • The church is open only for limited hours and major religious services, so check opening times before visiting.
  • Photography is typically allowed but remain respectful, especially if a service is underway.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Amalienborg Palace and the Marble Church, both within a few minutes’ walk.
  • Consider attending a service to experience Russian Orthodox liturgy, incense, and choral music in an intimate setting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen’s central square, the walk to the church leads you through the stately Frederiksstaden district. As you approach Amalienborg Palace, the golden onion domes of the church come into view just beyond the Marble Church. The area is pedestrian-friendly, and the stroll takes roughly 10–15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Metro Line M1 or M2 from Nørreport or Kongens Nytorv stops at Marmorkirken Station. From there, the church is a short walk among the city’s most elegant historical landmarks. Metro single tickets cost approximately 24 DKK for a standard adult fare.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from the central station or city hotels is quick—usually under 10 minutes in normal traffic—and costs in the range of 90–120 DKK depending on pickup point and traffic conditions.

  • Driving/Parking

    Street parking in Frederiksstaden is available, but can be limited, especially during weekdays or major events near Amalienborg Palace. Expect metered parking rates averaging 39 DKK per hour, payable at nearby machines or by mobile app.

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Discover more about Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn

Nestled among the elegant facades of Bredgade, St. Alexander Nevsky Church is a striking and somewhat unexpected jewel in Copenhagen’s architectural landscape. Erected by order of Tsar Alexander III and his Danish consort, Princess Dagmar (who became Empress Maria Feodorovna of Russia), this church was gifted to honor the marriage and strong ties between the Russian and Danish royal families. Its rich red brickwork is crowned by three dazzling gilded onion domes, a silhouette rarely seen in Scandinavia and immediately transportive to the world of Russian Orthodoxy. Upon crossing the modest threshold, visitors will find themselves enveloped in an atmosphere both peaceful and richly ornate. The intimate interior is adorned with vivid frescoes, glimmering chandeliers, and intricate iconostasis, showcasing sacred hand-painted icons and gilded woodwork imported from Russia. While services are typically conducted in Church Slavonic, the church warmly welcomes the curious, creating an extraordinary ambiance of incense, candlelight, and choral music for those fortunate enough to visit during worship times. The church is not simply a relic of the past but continues to serve Copenhagen’s small but vibrant Russian Orthodox community. Its historical connection to the Danish royalty is still palpable, with plaques and portraits commemorating its origins and significance. Though relatively compact, St. Alexander Nevsky Church stands out as a symbol of both spiritual devotion and diplomatic history—an essential stop for anyone interested in Copenhagen’s cosmopolitan past. Given its proximity to major attractions like Amalienborg Palace and Frederik’s Church (the Marble Church), this hidden treasure sits at the crossroads of the city’s royal and spiritual heritage.

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