Originally constructed as a small wooden church, it was the only church in Novosibirsk that remained open for services throughout the post-war Soviet era.
The cathedral underwent a major exterior transformation in the late 1980s, during which it was encased in brick while the original wooden structure remained preserved inside.
The iconostasis was renovated and expanded significantly during the 1980s under the direction of Metropolitan Gideon.
It is the historical center of the Novosibirsk Eparchy, which was established in its modern form in 1924.
The cathedral's architecture is a composite, blending traditional Russian Orthodox styles with late 20th-century liturgical expansion requirements.
The Ascension Cathedral is the primary Orthodox cathedral of the Novosibirsk diocese, notable for its distinct five-domed architectural design. Built in 1913, the structure is a rare example of a pre-revolutionary wooden church in Novosibirsk that has survived major historical changes, though it was significantly reconstructed and expanded with brick in the 1970s and 1980s. It functions as the seat of the Metropolitan of Novosibirsk and Berdsk. The interior houses several highly venerated icons, including an ancient icon of the Iveron Mother of God. The cathedral serves as the focal point for major religious processions and liturgical life in the region. Its location on Sovetskaya Street places it in the central district of the city. The cathedral complex includes administrative buildings and a Sunday school.
The view from across the street on Sovetskaya, which allows the full frame of the domes and the landscaped church grounds to be captured.
Visit during a weekday morning to experience the liturgy in a quieter, more personal setting.
Observe the community bulletin boards near the entrance for notices regarding upcoming feast day processions.
Maintain a respectful distance from congregants during active prayer or confession services.
Taking photographs of congregants while they are praying or participating in the liturgy.
Modest dress is required: women should cover their heads and shoulders, and men should wear long trousers and remove headwear upon entering.
