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St. Alexander Nevsky Church: A Russian Jewel in Central Copenhagen

Discover Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, famed for its onion domes, golden interiors, and a rich heritage linking Danish and Russian royal families.

St. Alexander Nevsky Church is Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church and a striking architectural landmark near the royal Amalienborg Palace. Built in the 1880s and gifted by Tsar Alexander III, it features dazzling onion domes and a richly ornamented interior, transporting visitors into another cultural world. The church is renowned for its beautiful iconostasis, gilded details, and the serene atmosphere it offers right in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to Langelinie Park

  • Nordre Toldbod, Copenhagen Municipality, København K, 1259, DK

Local tips

  • Look up to spot the church’s golden onion domes, a rare sight in Denmark and easy to photograph from nearby squares.
  • Check service times in advance, as the interior is sometimes closed to tourists during ceremonies.
  • Consider timing your visit around noon on weekends, when sunlight illuminates the interior iconostasis most beautifully.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Amalienborg Palace and the Marble Church for an immersive historic neighborhood experience.
  • Respect the reverent atmosphere—avoid loud conversations, and remember that photography may be restricted inside.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Køge, travel by train to Copenhagen Central Station, then transfer to the metro or city bus towards the city center. Alight at a stop near the royal Amalienborg Palace—the distinctive church domes are easily visible nearby. The full journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes, with a combined ticket typically costing 102 DKK each way for adults across both regions.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from Køge's town center provide a direct route to the heart of Copenhagen, passing key city landmarks before reaching the church. Depending on traffic and timing, the journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour, with fares averaging 900–1100 DKK each way.

  • Driving

    If traveling by car, the route leads you along the main highways connecting Køge to Copenhagen’s city center, with the Indre By district serving as your destination. On-street parking is limited and metered near the church, generally costing 34–42 DKK per hour. No tolls are involved for this approach, but expect heavy traffic during peak hours.

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Nestled within Copenhagen’s elegant Indre By (Inner City) district, St. Alexander Nevsky Church is an architectural gem that stands out for its distinctive Russian Orthodox design. Erected between 1881 and 1883 and funded by Tsar Alexander III of Russia as a tribute to his Danish-born wife, Princess Dagmar, this church serves as both a place of worship and a cultural bridge between Denmark and Russia. Its trio of iconic golden onion domes, visible from afar, set it apart from the typically Scandinavian skyline, hinting at an opulence more commonly found in St. Petersburg or Moscow. The church’s exterior draws travelers with intricate red brickwork, patterned detailing, and gilded Orthodox crosses, making it a favorite subject for architectural photography. Step inside and you’re welcomed by a serene, softly lit sanctuary. The richly painted and gilded iconostasis gleams with depictions of saints and Orthodox imagery, echoing Byzantine traditions. Marble columns, chandeliers, hand-painted arches, and fragrant beeswax candles combine to create a tranquil atmosphere distinctly removed from the bustle outside. Though relatively small, the church is layered with history, reflecting the long ties between Danish and Russian royalty and the cosmopolitan heritage of Copenhagen. Regular services are still held, accompanied by choral singing and the haunting aroma of incense. Visitors are welcome to quietly admire the icons and mosaics, though photography is respectfully restricted during services. The church’s proximity to Amalienborg and the Marble Church makes it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring Copenhagen’s royal quarter, rewarding those who seek out its unique cultural blend in a city known for its Lutheran traditions.

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