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Church of the Intercession on the Nerl

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In the midst of a water-meadow at the confluence of the river Nerl into the Klyazma river, stands the white-stone Church of the Intercession, one of the most lyrical creations of ancient Russian architects. It is surrounded by an open space meadow full of peace and poetry. When the the Nerl river expands in spring, the Church remain standing on a small island, reflected in the swift-flowing waters, rising to its walls. The foundation of the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl is associated with a victorious campaign of Vladimir regiments against Volga Bulgaria in 1164. In this campaign perished the young Prince Izyaslav. In memory of these events Andrei Bogolyubsky laid the foundation of temple, consecrated in honor of the feast of the Intercession of the Virgin. Its construction is very simple. However the builders of the Church managed to realize a new artistic image. Using well-chosen proportions, shapes, and details, the architects has managed to overcome the weight of the stone, to create the impression of weightlessness. The walls of the Church are decorated with carved reliefs. All three facades repeat the same composition, the King David the Psalmist, sitting on the throne. On both sides of the King there are symmetricaly located two doves, with lion figures under them. Below, there are three female masks with hair in braids. The same masks, symbolizing Mary, mother of Jesus, are placed on the lateral parts of the facade so the temple looks like girded by them. The Church of the Intercession is often called the most beautiful Russian Church. It iws included in the list of UNESCO world heritage.

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