Background

St. Alexander Nevsky Church: Copenhagen’s Russian Orthodox Jewel

A dazzling Russian Orthodox landmark in Copenhagen’s Indre By, St. Alexander Nevsky Church unites vibrant architecture, royal history, and a contemplative spiritual atmosphere.

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St. Alexander Nevsky Church in Copenhagen is Denmark’s only Russian Orthodox church, renowned for its dazzling gilded onion domes and richly decorated interior. Built in the late 19th century, it stands as both an architectural marvel and a living symbol of the historical ties between Denmark and Russia. Visitors are welcomed into a world of colorful iconography, intricate mosaics, and the heady scent of incense, offering a distinct cultural and spiritual experience within the elegant Indre By district.

A brief summary to Stork Fountain

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check service times in advance, as the church may close to tourists during Orthodox liturgies.
  • Photography is generally allowed, but be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services.
  • Modest clothing and a respectful demeanor are expected; women may wish to cover their heads inside.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along Bredgade, home to several museums and royal sites.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Køge's center, journey to Copenhagen by frequent S-trains, alighting at Copenhagen Central. The Indre By district is easily accessed via Metro or a short city bus ride (tickets typically range from 80–100 DKK for an adult for the full journey). Upon arrival, the gilded domes of St. Alexander Nevsky Church are a distinct sight a few minutes’ walk from Amalienborg Palace and the Marble Church, placing you firmly within the historic heart of Copenhagen.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from Køge to central Copenhagen take approximately 40–50 minutes depending on traffic, with fares usually around 700–900 DKK. From the city center, it is a brief ride to the Indre By quarter where the church is located near major royal landmarks. Limited parking is available in the area, with paid options averaging 35–50 DKK per hour.

  • Driving

    Driving from Køge, travelers reach Copenhagen via connecting motorways, exiting into the city center within about 45 minutes. The Indre By district is well signposted, and the golden domes of the church can be glimpsed alongside the Marble Church and Amalienborg Palace. Parking can be challenging, with metered spaces nearby ranging from 35–50 DKK per hour. Street parking may be scarce during weekdays.

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Discover more about Stork Fountain

In the heart of Copenhagen’s prestigious Indre By quarter rises a striking silhouette—the golden, triple onion domes of St. Alexander Nevsky Church. Commissioned in the 1880s by Tsar Alexander III and Empress Maria Feodorovna (born Princess Dagmar of Denmark), the church embodies both personal devotion and diplomatic alliance between the Russian and Danish royal families. Its expressive Russo-Byzantine style, rarely seen in Denmark, immediately catches the eye with its vibrant bricks, gilded features, and Orthodox crosses visible from far along Bredgade. Step inside to discover an intimate, jewel-box interior richly adorned with icons, mosaics, and frescoes shimmering with gold leaf. The scent of beeswax and incense lingers in the air, while sunlight filters through ornate stained glass onto centuries-old icons and the intricately carved iconostasis. Quiet chanting occasionally echoes during services, amplifying the church’s sense of Russian spirituality—a striking contrast to the surrounding Copenhagen architecture. The church remains an active parish, hosting Orthodox liturgies and cultural events. For visitors, it offers a unique vantage point on Danish history, with details that nod to the enduring ties between two monarchies. Unlike the city’s grand Lutheran cathedrals, St. Alexander Nevsky is smaller and more contemplative, providing a deeply atmospheric window into Eastern Christian tradition. Entry is free, though respectful attire and quiet observation are expected. Photographers will find ample inspiration in its luminous cupolas, both inside and out. As one of Copenhagen’s most distinctive ecclesiastical landmarks, this church transports you from Scandinavia to the heart of old Russia—no passport required.

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