Paul Gilbert | Nicholas II

BOOK REVIEW – ‘Memories of Russia. My Travels in Post-Soviet Russia’

PHOTO: Romanov historian and author Paul Gilbert

I recently received the following review of my book Memories of Russia. My Travels in Post-Soviet Russia from an American reader . . .

16th September 2026

Dear Paul Gilbert

“I came across Memories of Russia: My Travels in Post Soviet Russia, and what stayed with me was the depth of personal history behind the book. Twenty nine visits to Russia over four decades gives your observations a perspective that goes far beyond a conventional travelogue, especially when so many of the places you revisit are connected to the final years of Nicholas II and the Romanov family.

” . . . what stayed with me was the depth of personal history behind the book.”

“What particularly stood out was the way you bring historic places to life through firsthand experience. Your visits to the Kremlin, the Winter Palace, Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof, the State Archives, and other sites create a journey through both physical spaces and the history preserved within them. The combination of travel memories, archival research, and historical context gives the book a strong sense of continuity between the Russia you encountered and the past you have spent decades studying.

“I was also drawn to the extraordinary depth of your commitment to this subject. Your research into the life and reign of Nicholas II, your regular travels to Russia, your work organizing Romanov tours and conferences, and your publication of more than fifty books concerning the Russian Imperial family reflect a sustained dedication to preserving and examining this period of history. Your firsthand attendance at the 1998 funeral of Nicholas II and the 2018 Tsar’s Days events adds another remarkable dimension to that body of work.”

***

*You can order this title from most AMAZON outlets, including
the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Sweden,
Brazil, Mexico and Japan
*Note: prices are quoted in local currencies

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $28.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. 9″ x 6″ format. Hard cover and paperback. 314 pages.

Richly llustrated with more than 200 black and white photographs!

***

This year marks the 40th anniversary of my first visit to Russia. During the past four decades, I have visited Russia 29 times!

I travelled to Moscow, St. Petersburg – and the suburban towns of Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof, Pavlovsk, Gatchina and Strelna – as well as Yalta and Crimea, Ekaterinburg and Alapaevsk.

In my new book, which is part travelogue, part history, I share my personal impressions and history of a dozen historic sites, that I have visited – some on numerous occasions. Out of the dozen historic sites covered in my book, all but two have a connection to Russia’s last tsar Nicholas II.

Join me as I revisit such places as the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Petrovsky Travelling Palace and the Russian State Archives – where I explore the Romanov archives in Moscow; learn the fate of Nicholas II’s private apartments in the Winter Palace and the State Hermitage Theatre – venue for the famous 1903 Costume Ball; travel with me to the Children’s Island and the Feodorovsky Sovereign Cathedral – Nicholas II’s favourite church at Tsarskoye Selo; the ruins of the Lower Dacha at Peterhof and much more!

On the cover photo above, I am standing in the magnificent St. Andrew’s Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow. The date is 27th October 2000 – the day in which I marked my 44th birthday. Of all the wonderful memories I have from the 29 journeys I made to Russia between 1986-2018, this is among one of the most memorable!

Subscribe to my bi-weekly Nicholas II news updates . . . it’s FREE!

Posted on September 2 by Paul Gilbert

NOTE: my next news update will be e-mailed on 15th September 2026

My visit to Our Lady of Smolensk Orthodox Church in Jacksons Point, Ontario

Posted on July 14 by Paul Gilbert

Paul Gilbert at Our Lady of Smolensk Church in Jacksons Point, Ontario
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

On Sunday 12th July 2026 – the day the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul – I visited Our Lady of Smolensk Church in Jacksons Point, Ontario. The church is situated about an hour and half north of Toronto, in the beautiful cottage country of Lake Simcoe.

“Given your longstanding work as a Romanov historian and your dedication to preserving the memory of the Imperial Family and the New Martyrs of Russia, we believe your visit would be a great blessing and encouragement to our parish community,” wrote Greg Montana, on on behalf of Father Maxim (Abroskin).

After I had received the warm invite, I mentioned to Mr. Montana, that I was not Orthodox and did the invite still stand? His reply: “Yes, definitely the invitation still stands even though you are not yet Orthodox.”

I attended the Divine Liturgy in the morning, and at noon I was invited to speak to parishioners. The topic of my discussion was: “Myths and Lies About Russia’s Last Tsar.”

View of Our Lady of Smolensk Church (ROCOR), Jacksons Point, Ontario
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

A Short History of the Parish

There is no place in Canada closer to Russia than Berezki [birch grove], a picturesque corner on the shores of Lake Simcoe, which originally belonged to the members of the Artyukhov family. It was 1953. The surrounding landscape was so reminiscent of Russia that the place quickly gained popularity among the Russian emigration. Several families together, purchased the first plot. This is how they laid the foundation for the place that for many Russian refugees, who for political or ideological reasons could not return to Russia (which was then the USSR), became a second homeland for many years. M.Y. After the roads were laid, new plots of land were put up for sale and more Russian families settled there.

On 10th August 1957, on the day of the celebration of the Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God Hodegetria, several summer cottages were consecrated and it was decided to build a church in the name of this revered icon.

Our Lady of Smolensk Orthodox Church in Jacksons Point, Ontario, was founded in 1957 and dedicated to the Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God. The church’s construction began with the laying of the foundation in 1958, and it was replaced by a stone church in 1981. The gleaming cupola and cross were added in 1983, and the community completed the memorial chapel dedicated to the Saint family of the last Russian Emperor in 1990.

Our Lady of Smolensk Church at Jacksons Point was established in 1957
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

My first Divine Liturgy in 8 years

I arrived in the morning to attend Divine Liturgy. As soon as I opened the door and stepped inside the church, the smell of burning incense transported me thousands of miles to Russia. I had not been inside a Russian Orthodox Church since July of 2018, when I travelled to Ekaterinburg, to take part in the events marking the 100th anniversary of the death and martyrdom of Nicholas II, his family and their four faithful retainers. It was during my stay in the Ural city that I attended Divine Services daily, in the Church on the Blood, which was a short walk from my hotel.

As the Divine Services began on Sunday morning, my eyes scanned the magnificent iconostasis (seen in the photo below). I gazed up at the dome and the frescoes painted on the ceilings, returning to take in each of the icons. As my gaze shifted to the far side of the church, I saw a familiar face stairing at me – it was the Holy Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II, who was depicted in a large icon of the Holy Royal Martyrs. Father Maxim later told me that the icon came from Jordanville, and took 6 men to carry it!

View of the beautiful iconostasis, note the icon of the Holy Royal Martyrs on the left
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

Icons depicting the Holy Royal Martyrs and St. Elizabeth the New Martyr
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

Unique exhibit dedicated to the Romanovs

Father Maxim was keen to show me his small (but growing) exhibit in the basement of the church. I was surprised to find such a wonderful collection of portraits and framed photographs (seen in the photos below) of members of the Russian Imperial Family, which included not only Nicholas II and his family, but other extended members such as Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna, Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich and Emperor Paul I.

Also on display, were a selection of Russian and English language books on Nicholas II and his family, even a copy of my semi-annual publication Sovereign, which is dedicated to clearing the name of Russia’s last Tsar. In this particular issue, was an article I wrote about a pannikhida served for Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna at York Cemetery in Toronto on 24th July 2025. The solemn ceremony was performed by Father Maxim, in the presence of Russia’s Ambassador to Canada Oleg Stepanov. Father Maxim asked me to sign the issue, of which I was more than happy to do so3

Father Maxim (Abroskin) with Paul Gilbert
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

A collection of portraits, photos and books about Nicholas II and his family
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

Paul Gilbert browsing the church’s collection in the basement of the church
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

Chapel in Memory of the Holy Royal Martyrs

Situated on the grounds of the church is a small wooden chapel dedicated to the Holy Royal Martyrs. A small bronze plaque reads:

“This memorial chapel was built in memory of the Holy Royal Martyrs: Nicholas II, the last Emperor of Russia, and his family, who were brutally assassinated on July 17th, 1918.

“The foundation stone was consecrated by Metropolitan Hilarion, First Heirarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia on August 6th 2017.

“The chapel was erected by the parishioners at the initiative of Fr. Maksim Abroskim. It was consecrated by Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada on September 29th, 2018 in honour of the 100th anniversary of the execution of the Russian Royal Family.”

Upon entering the chapel, a large icon of the Holy Royal Martyrs hangs on the wall, a smaller copy of the one hanging in the main church. There are also icons depicting St. Elizabeth (Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna) the New Martyr and St. Seraphim of Sarov [canonized during the reign of Nicholas II], among others.

It is interesting to note that Our Lady of Smolensk Church is home to the only chapel outside of Russia dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Holy Royal Martyrs.

Father Maxim (Abroskin) with Paul Gilbert at the Holy Royal Martyrs Chapel
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

View of the interior of the chapel dedicated to the Holy Royal Martyrs
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

Memorial Cross dedicated to St Sergei of Radonyezh

Erected on 18th July 2014, the Memorial Cross commemorates the 700th anniversary of the birth of St. Sergius of Radonezh, one of Russia’s most revered saints.

St. Sergius of Radonezh (1314–1392) is widely known as the greatest national saint of Russia and the founder of the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius – (43 mi) to the northeast from Moscow. He is revered as the father of Russian monasticism and a unifying figure in Russian history.

Memorial Cross dedicated to St Sergei of Radonyezh
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

My talk: “Myths and Lies About Russia’s Last Tsar”

Following Divine Services and a tour of the church and grounds, I was invited by Father Maxim to begin my talk, which was well attended. The event took place outdoors, in a shaded area and I must say how grateful I was to speak in such a relaxed atmosphere, especially on such a hot day.

I talked about four of the many myths which continue to haunt the legacy of Russia’s much slandered name: the myth that “Nicholas II was not prepared for the Throne”; the myth that “Russia was a poor, backward nation under Nicholas II”; the myth that “Nicholas II was a drunkard”; and the myth that “Nicholas II’s death was met with indifference.”

I then proceeded to talk about “why” after more than a century, these an so many other myths and lies exist, more than a century after this death, citing many reasons, including ignorance, propaganda, academically lazy historians, even Russophobia. My talk lasted 30 minutes, and was even met with applause by those present!

I then thanked Father Maxim for inviting me to his parish and to speak with parishioners. I presented him with a copy of my book Most Pious Tsar: Icons, Frescoes and Holy Images of Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II, which was published in 2023. Father Maxim then presented me with a beautiful icon – seen in the photo below.

I was then asked to say a few words about myself and my mission to clear the name of the Holy Royal Martyr Nicholas II. Afterwards, people came up to chat, shake hands, take photos, while other brought copies of various books I have written to be signed. I cannot begin to express my gratitude to Father Maxim and the church parishioners, who gave me such a warm welcome, it was a very special day for me.

Father Maxim presented me with this icon depicting Our Lady of Smolensk
© Paul Gilbert. 2026

My Journey to Orthodoxy

During my visit to Our Lady of Smolensk Church, I spoke privately with Father Maxim about my wanting to convert to Orthodoxy. I explained that it was something in which I had been considering for many years, always in the belief that I was being guided to Orthodoxy by Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II. Father Maxim listened attentively to me, asking me questions, and explaining that I must first complete the catechism, and that once this is completed, that he would be very happen to perform the rite of baptism into the Russian Orthodox Church. And so, my journey to Orthodoxy begins . . .

Our Lady of Smolensk Church in Jacksons Point extends invitation to Paul Gilbert

Posted on July 4 by Paul Gilbert

On Sunday, 12th July 2026, I will attend a Liturgy at Our Lady of Smolensk Church (ROCOR) in Jacksons Point, Ontario. Following the Divine Services, I have been invited to speak to parishioners. The topic of my discussion will be: “Myths and Lies About Russia’s Last Tsar.”

It is interesting to note that Our Lady of Smolensk Church is home to the only chapel outside of Russia dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Holy Royal Martyrs. In the lower level of the main church, is an exhibit dedicated to the Holy Martyr Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna, who is the patron saint of the parish sisterhood.

Divine Services begin at 9:45 am. My lecture starts at 12:00 noon. If you live in the Greater Toronto area or in cottage country, you are welcome to attend, however, non-Orthodox visitors to the church are kindly reminded that this is a place of worship, and church etiquette is to be respected.

Our Lady of Smolensk Church (ROCOR) is situated in Jackson Point, Ontario, which is 86 km north of Toronto. The church is located at 5 Birch Rd, Jacksons Point, Ontario, ON L0E 1L0 Canada.

***

The Our Lady of Smolensk Orthodox Church in Jacksons Point, Ontario, was founded in 1957 and dedicated to the Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God. The church’s construction began with the laying of the foundation in 1958, and it was replaced by a stone church in 1981. The gleaming cupola and cross were added in 1983, and the community completed the memorial chapel dedicated to the Saint family of the last Russian Emperor in 1990.

Paul Gilbert celebrates Russia Day on “Russian soil”

Posted on June 12 by Paul Gilbert

His Excellency Oleg Stepanov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Canada
with historian and author Paul Gilbert, during a reception held at the
Russian Embassy in Ottawa, Canada on 11th June 2026

On Thursday, 11th June 2026, I celebrated Russia National Day on “Russian soil” in Canada. I was just one of the guests invited to attend a reception held at the Russian Embassy in Ottawa. I was truly honoured to be invited to this event, as it gave me an opportunity to celebrate my heartfel love for Russia, it’s history and it’s people.

I travelled to our nation’s capital by train, a four-hour journey from where I currently live. I have not been on a Canadian train since I was 4 years old – that was 65 years ago!! As this was a special occasion, I decided to travel Business Class, which made the journey all the more enjoyable. I was served a hot breakfast on the way to Ottawa, and a hot dinner on the way home, the latter of which was served with a delightful red wine from the Niagara region of Ontario. I appreciated the extra perks that came with Business Class, such as use of the Business Class Lounge in Ottawa and priority boarding.

PHOTO: In the foreground, Paul Gilbert with Oleg Stepanov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Canada and his wife Mrs. Julia Stepanova, during a reception held at the Russian Embassy in Ottawa, Canada on 11th June 2026

Upon arrived each guest was warmly greeted by His Excellency Oleg Stepanov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Canada and his wife Mrs. Julia Stepanova. All the guests were photographed with their hosts.

Between 100-200 people attended the reception. They included ambassadors and other diplomats from countries friendly to Russia, Orthodox priests, academics, historians, among others. The guests – both gentlemen and ladies were impeccably dressed for the event.

After all the guests had arrived, His Excellency gave a speech followed by a toast, wishing every one present a “Happy Russia National Day’. A buffet of Russian delicacies was offered to guests, the main tale of which was crowned with a Russian samovar.

It was a very friendly event: smiling guests mingled and chatted, while clinking glasses. I met some very interesting people, and my tie received a number of compliments. I had ordered a special white, blue and red tie – the colour of the Russian flag for the event. I also had an opportunity of speaking with His Excellency and His wife privately, in which we discussed Russian history and other mutual interests.

PHOTO: my invitation to attend a reception in honour of Russia National Day
held at the Russian Embassy in Ottawa, Canada on 11th June 2026

Russia Day is the national holiday of the Russian Federation, celebrated annually on 12th June. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty by the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (RSFSR) in 1990, marking the beginning of the country’s modern constitutional history.

The holiday was originally known as Independence Day and later renamed “Day of Adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty” before officially becoming Russia Day in 2002. It is a national public holiday in Russia, characterized by a day off for the general population. Celebrations focus on national pride, unity, and heritage, and typically include award ceremonies, festive events and fireworks.

С Днем России всем моим друзьям в России!

Happy Russia Day to all my friends in Russia!

NEW BOOK – Sovereign No. 17 (Summer 2026)

Posted on May 31 by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. Large format 8-1/2″ x 11-1/2″.
132 pages. 122 Black & White photos

The No. 17 Summer 2026 issue of SOVEREIGN features 21 articles about Russia’s last Tsar, his family, the Romanov dynasty and the history of Imperial Russia. These articles have been researched and written by independent historian and author Paul Gilbert. His works are based on new research from Russian archival and media sources.

In an effort to preserve his 30+ years of research, the author has reproduced a selection of the more than 1,000 articles he has written for his blog. They are made available in a printed format for the first time. The author has updated many of the articles in this issue with additional information and photos. In addition, this issue features one new First English translation.

The No. 17 issue features the following 21 articles:

[1] 130th anniversary of the Holy Coronation of Emperor Nicholas II

[2] Sir Thomas Preston Recalls Ekaterinburg, 1918

[3] Six new monuments of Nicholas II installed in Russian cities

[4] Exhibition: ‘The Era of Nicholas II’ opens in Livadia

[5] ‘The Tsar’s Omen’ Exhibition opens in St. Petersburg

[6] First governor of Sverdlovsk regrets the ROC has not recognized the Ekaterinburg Remains

[7] Alexander Nikolaevich Avdonin 1932-2026

[8] Exhibition: ‘Fans pf Empress Maria Feodorovna – 1860s to 1910s

[9] The Church of the Saviour on the Waters to be restored in St. Petersburg

[10] Livadia Palace and Park to undergo large-scale restoration

[11] 300th Anniversary of the reign of the House of Romanov 1913

[12] Lenin’s presence on Red Square continues to rile Russians

[13] The assassination of Grigorii Rasputin

[14] The LAST grand duke and grand duchess of Russia

[15] Letters of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna donated to St. Petersburg museum

[16] Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna’ s archive donated to GARF

[17] ‘History Returned’ Exhibition opens in Moscow

[18] Conference: ‘Emperor Nicholas II and Dialogue with the Islamic World’

[19] Could the Ipatiev House in Ekaterinburg have been saved?

[20] Lost Orthodox Churches of Imperial Russia: Cathedral of Christ the Saviour (Borki)

[21 ] Derussification in Ukraine “erases” the Romanov dynasty

***

Back issues of SOVEREIGN

No. 16 Winter 2026

No. 15 Summer 2025

No. 14 Winter 2025

No. 13 Summer 2024

No. 12 Winter 2024

NOTE: back issues of Nos. 1 to 12 are now out of print.
Second-hand copies are available on AMAZON and eBay.

The truth about Russia’s much slandered Tsar

Posted on May 19 by Paul Gilbert

This year marks the 158th anniversary of the birth of Emperor Nicholas II on 19th May [O.S. 6th May] 1868 and the108th anniversary of his death and martyrdom on 17th July 1918.

In recognition of these historic dates, I am reaching out to friends and supporters for donations to help support my research on the life and reign of Nicholas II, and in aid of my personal mission to clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar.

There are many web sites, blogs and Facebook pages dedicated to the Romanovs, however, I work very hard searching Russian archival and media sources to bring something new to the table every day, including articles and news stories – from Russian archival and media sources – on Nicholas II and his family, the Romanov dynasty, their palaces, exhibitions + photos, videos and more.

Every dollar collected goes toward the acquisition and translation of documents, letters and diaries from Russian archival sources. In addition are the first English translations of articles researched by a new generation of Russian historians, which challenge the popular negative assessment of Nicholas II, which prevails to this day.

Your donation also helps offset the cost of maintenance of my blog: Nicholas II. Emperor. Tsar. Saint, and the organization and promotion of Romanov themed events, such as the 2nd International Nicholas II Conference and other events.

If you enjoy all the articles, news, photos, and videos, please help support my work in the coming year ahead by making a donation.

CLICK HERE TO MAKE A DONATION IN US DOLLARS

CREDIT CARDS and PAYPAL ACCEPTED
Donations as little as $5 are much appreciated, and there is NO obligation!

Thank you for your consideration

As a token of my gratitude, click HERE to download and print a 22-page booklet Nicholas II Bibliography – it’s FREE!

My 2026 edition features a NEW 4-page article about Nicholas II’s libraries and book collection; 8 black and white photos; and a list of more than 125 English-language books on the life and reign of Nicholas II.

My efforts to clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar – Paul Gilbert

Posted on May 1 by Paul Gilbert

During the month of May, we celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Emperor Nicholas II in the Alexander Palace on 19th May (O.S. 6th May) 1868, and this year (2026), we mark the 130th anniversary of the Holy Coronation of Nicholas II in Moscow on 27 May (O.S. 14 May) 1896. During the past 30+ years, I have written and reported extensively on both.

I have been researching and writing about the Romanov dynasty since the early 1990s, but it was not until October 2018 – during the Nicholas II Conference – which I organized and hosted on 27th October 2018 – that I announced I would be concentrating all my future efforts on the life and reign of Emperor Nicholas II (1868-1918).

I am now able to this through this blog – which now features more than 1,000 full-length articles and news stories, researched from Russian media and archival sources: the publication of more than 50 books and my periodical SOVEREIGN – published twice a year: my bi-weekly e-mail updates (see below); and through Facebook – the social media outlet, of which I now have more than 11,000 followers.

Subscribe to my bi-weekly Nicholas II news updates . . . it’s FREE!

There are many web sites, blogs and social media pages dedicated to the Romanovs. However, despite the fact that I am now retired, I continue to work very hard searching Russian archival and media sources to bring something new to the table on a daily basis. This includes First English translations of articles researched by a new generation of Russian historians; news on the Romanovs, their palaces, exhibitions, etc; + photos, videos and more.

If you enjoy all the articles, news, photos, and videos which I personally research, write and share, please continue to follow me on this blog, on social media or through the purchase of my books and periodical SOVEREIGN – see below.

Thank you for your interest and support of my work, and my
efforts to clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar

One way that you can assist me with my research, is by supporting my publishing projects, such as my semi-annual periodical SOVEREIGN. This important publishing project features articles on the life and reign of Nicholas II, his family and the history of Imperial Russia. The articles featured in each issue are based on new research from Russian media and archival sources. As of 1st May 2026, a total of 16 issues have been published. *Please note that the No. 17 Summer 2026 issue will be available in June 2026!

CLICK HERE for more details about the latest issues of SOVEREIGN

NEW BOOK – ‘Memories of Russia: My Travels in Post-Soviet Russia’ by Paul Gilbert

Posted on April 15 by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $25.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. 9″ x 6″ format. Hard cover and paperback. 314 pages.

***

This year marks the 40th anniversary of my first visit to Russia. During the past four decades, I have visited Russia 29 times!

I travelled to Moscow, St. Petersburg – and the suburban towns of Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof, Pavlovsk, Gatchina and Strelna – as well as Yalta and Crimea, Ekaterinburg and Alapaevsk.

Richly llustrated with more than 200 black and white photographs!

Every one has one country in which they are drawn, for me it is Russia
– PAUL GILBERT (Retired)

“Ekaterinburg is my favorite Russian city” – Paul Gilbert

Posted on April 4 by Paul Gilbert

Ekaterinburg was founded on 18th November 1723, by decree of Emperor Peter I (1672-1725), however, its ‘City Day is officially celebrated on the third Saturday of August. The name of the city was given in honor of Empress Catherine I (1684-1727), the second wife of Peter the Great. The Ural city celebrated it’s 300th anniversary in 2023.

In 1924 Ekaterinburg was renamed Sverdlovsk – after the Bolshevik leader Yakov Sverdlov – and lived with the Bolshevik name for 67 years. It was during the Soviet years that Sverdlovsk was a “closed city”, particularly foreigners. Everything changed after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, when the city returned to its historical name of Ekaterinburg. Since that time, the city has boomed, attracting both business and tourism from across Russia, the former Soviet republics, Europe, the UK and the United States.

In the May 14th 2020 issue of ‘Forbes Magazine,’ travel writer Jared Ranahan named my favourite Russian city of Ekaterinburg as one of the ‘Five Underrated Russian Cities To Explore After Moscow’

Ranahan writes: “Though often overshadowed by its larger neighbours to the west, Yekaterinburg is a major cultural hub for the country, often referred to as the “third capital of Russia” as well as the “Window to Asia” thanks to its location on the eastern edge of the Ural mountain range. While the city is home to a truly impressive skyline featuring some of Russia’s tallest buildings, a major draw for tourists is the city’s rich cultural legacy. Of the many historic sites scattered throughout Yekaterinburg, one of the most significant is the Church of All Saints in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land [Church on the Blood]. This grand Russian Orthodox structure marks the location where Bolshevik forces executed Nicholas II, the last emperor of Russia, and his family.”

* * *

PHOTO: St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Novo-Tikhvinsky Convent, Ekaterinburg

Why is Ekaterinburg my favourite city in Russia?

People often ask me “Why Ekaterinburg?” as opposed to the former Imperial capitals of St. Petersburg or Moscow and “Ekaterinburg has such a dark history.”

Ekaterinburg has done more to honour Nicholas II and his family than any other city in Russia. Thanks to my visits to Ekaterinburg in 2012, 2016 and 2018, it is a city which I have grown to love.

“On a spiritual level, Ekaterinburg was the last capital of the Russian Empire, because the residence of the Sovereign was always considered the capital in Russia. Peter the Great never officially transferred the capital from Moscow to St. Petersburg, but since he lived there, it was the capital,” says Russian historian Peter Multatuli.

Multatuli noted that in 1918, for 78 days, Emperor Nicholas II and his family lived in Ekaterinburg, and that is why the Ural capital can be considered the last capital of the Russian Empire. [It is important to note that many historians – myself included – firmly believe that the Tsar’s signing of the instrument of abdication, his status as Tsar remained inviolate and unassailable – PG]

“Petrograd and Moscow to one degree or another welcomed his overthrow, and they bear a greater responsibility in this than any other Russian city. No matter what anyone says, it was Ekaterinburg that served as the last Imperial residence, which, according to God’s special plan, became the Royal Golgotha,” added Multatuli.

According to him, in the near future, Ekaterinburg will play a great role in the history of Russia, because “the city named after St. Catherine and becoming the Royal Golgotha will be the city of Russian resurrection.”

Once a bastion of Bolshevism, Ekaterinburg has slowly shed its status as the “capital of atheism”. Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Urals have experienced a revival of faith, with Ekaterinburg at the center of Orthodox Russia in the Urals.

Below, is a list of places associated with the last days of Nicholas II and his family, during their house arrest from April to July 1918, which are worth visiting. More than a century after his death and martyrdom, churches, monasteries, monuments, museums and exhibitions honour him and his beloved family. These are just some of the reasons “why” Ekaterinburg is my favourite city in Russia.

PHOTO: the author of this article standing next to the bust-monument to Tsar Martyr Nicholas II, located on the grounds of the Monastery of the Holy Royal Passion-Beaers at Ganina Yama. July 2018 – Tsar’s Days

Places in th Ekaterinburg worth seeing

Tsar’s Days – an annual event which marks the anniversary of the death and martyrdom of Emperor Nicholas II, his family and four faithful retainers. Each year it attracts tens of thousands of Orthodox Christians, monarchists and adherents of Russia’s last Tsar, from across Russia and around the world. In 2018 – the year marking the 100th anniversary of the regicide – more than 100,000 faithful attended. The event culminates on the night of 16/17 July, with an outdoor divine liturgy, followed by a a 21-km (13 mile) Cross Procession to the Monastery of the Holy Royal-Passion Bearers at Ganina Yama.

Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land [aka the Church on the Spilled Blood] – built in 2000-2003 on the site of the former Ipatiev House, which was demolished in 1977. The completed complex comprises two churches, a belfry, a patriarchal annex, and a museum dedicated to Nicholas II and his family. The altar, which is situated in the Lower Church is directly over the site where the Romanovs were murdered. A large monument to Nicholas II and his family stands outside the church. The staircase on the left of the monument represents the 23 steps the Imperial Family and their retainers descended to their death and martyrdom in the Ipatiev House in the early morning hours of 17th July 1918.

Patriachal Compound – situated on the square across from the Church on the Blood, the Patriachal Compound serves as the residence of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, when he is visiting the region. The compound is also home to the Tsarsky Cultural Educational Center and the Museum of the Holy Royal Family. A bust-monument on pedestal of Emperor Nicholas II stands at the top of the stairs leading to the museum.

The Romanovs in the Urals – the permanent exhibition opened in the Poklevsky-Kozell House Museum of the Sverdlovsk Regional Museum of Local Lore in July 2023. Among the exhibits is the original cast iron fireplace (among other items), salvaged from the dining room of the Ipatiev House before its demolition in September 1977, and evolvers used by the regicides – including Peter Ermakov’s – to murder the Imperial Family in the Ipatiev House on 17th July 1918.

PHOTO: watercolour depicting the Church on the Blood

The Path of Sorrows – a route which passes through the places associated with the final days of Russia’s last Tsar and his family in the Ural capital, which includes:

Church in honour of the Reigning Icon of the Mother of God, near the Yekaterinburg-I Railway Station was located here, where on 30th April (new style), 1918, the train carrying Nicholas II, his family members and their five retainers stood for several hours, before proceeding to the the Shartash-Yekaterinburg-II Railway Station, where they disembarked.

The Shartash-Yekaterinburg-II Railway Station where Emperor Nicholas II, Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna and their five faithful retainers disembarked from the train on 30th April 1918. Here, near the Shartash-Yekaterinburg-II Railway Station, a Memorial Cross and a foundation stone were installed. There are plans to build a church in honour of the Valaam Icon of the Mother of God on this site – one of the three miraculous icons that appeared during the reign of Nicholas II.

Church of the Icon of the Mother of God “Port Arthur”, built in 2017. Here, according to historical records, on 23rd May (new style), 1918, Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich, abd the Grand Duchesses Olga, Tatiana and Anastasia Nikolaevna arrived by train. They too, were subsequently placed under arrest, and then taken to the Ipatiev House.

PHOTO: this splended view of Ekaterinburg is highlighted by the Churh on the Blood

Monastery of the Holy Royal Passion-Bearers – at Ganina Yama is the site of the Four Brothers mine, which is located near the village of Koptyaki, 15 km north from Ekaterinburg. It was here, on 17th July 1918, that the regicides tried to hide the remains of the Imperial Family. Seven wooden chapels were constructed around the site, one for each member of the Imperial Family. A tall Orthodox cross marks the edge of the mine shaft, visible by a depression in the ground. Several monuments can be found on the grounds of the monastery, including Emperor Nicholas II, Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, OTMAA (the children of Nicholas II) and Nikolai Sokolov, who in February 1919, launched an investigation into the murder of Nicholas II and his family. There is a permanent Romanov exhibit in the Museum and Exhibition Cente, located in the basement of Church of the Reigning Icon of the Mother of God.

Romanov Memorial at Porosenkov Log – situated about 3.8 km from Ganina Yama, it was here at Porosenkov Log that regicides reburied the remains of the Imperial family and their four faithful retainers in two separate graves. The remains of the Tsar, his wife, three of their five children, and four faithful retainers were discovered in 1978, then exhumed in 1991, while the remains of Alexei and Maria were discovered in 2007. It is the only place in Ekaterinburg, which is associated with Russia’s last Tsar, that has survived to this day unchanged.

Novo-Tikhvinsky Convent – during their house arrest from April to July 1918, the sisters’ helped the Imperial Family by offering prayers, and through deeds: disregarding their own safety, they supported the Tsar and his family by passing over various foods to them through the guards on a daily basis. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is magnificent. The convent is a sanctuary for prayer and reflection in the beautifully landscaped gardens. In June 2022, a monument to four other faithful retainers of the Imperial Family was installed and consecrated in these gardens.

Sredneuralsky Monastery – in 2014, the Trinity Church was consecrated. It is dedicated to Nicholas II and his familyI. The Lower Church reproduces the interior of the basement of the Ipatiev House, where the Imperial Family were shot. Next to the church e is a huge worship cross dedicated to the Romanovs. In 2007, a bronze monument to Nicholas II was installed and consecrated on the grounds of the monastery.

Church of the Holy Passion Bearer Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich, in the village of Kashino in the Sysert district, situated about 47 km south of Ekaterinburg. The foundation stone of the wooden church was laid on July 24, 2003 by Archbishop Vikenty of Yekaterinburg and Verkhoturye. The church was opened on 12th (O.S. 30th July) August 2004 – the day marking the 100th anniversary of Alexei’s birth. The church was consecrated on 22nd January 2005.