Veliky Novgorod gained its power and wealth on trade. No wonder that Novgorod merchants built a temple in honor of St. Paraskeva Friday, her patroness was considered, protector and protector. The first wooden church was built right on the Torga in 1156. In 1207 a stone temple was built in its place.
Many Russian churches have a tragic history, but even against their background, the Paraskeva Church stands out. The temple was burned 15 times. It is no wonder that its exact appearance cannot be reproduced. In 1340, the southwest corner collapsed after a fire. Restored it quickly, inaccurately. The roof was replaced and the roof rebuilt. In 1524 there was a fire and a new one.
restructuring. In the 18th century, the temple collapsed 2 times. Yeah! Chapter and vaults. They were restored only to be quicker and simpler, they did not think about preserving the historical appearance then.
At the beginning of the 19th century, it was decided to dismantle the temple. We received the consent of the Synod, issued all the documents and… incomprehensibly, the building was not only preserved, but even repaired. The Church was lucky at the Trade — it was not given as a commune or artel. Already in the 20 years, scientists began to study and even strengthen the temple. During the war, the temple was not directly damaged, but dilapidated.
In 1954, a major restoration began. The task was incredibly difficult. How to rebuild a temple that has been rebuilt 15 times? In its original form? Later architectural forms will have to be destroyed. We compromised. As a result, the bottom of all the facades and the north completely repeat the forms of the 13th century. The western is on the 16th, and the eastern drum is on the 17th. Certain parts of the walls were left without plaster, some were plastered, some were plastered and whitewashed.
Only 1, another was erected in the 16th century, and 4 in the 17th.
Head of restoration works, G.M. Shtender wrote that the beauty of the church is manifested in the details, and the building itself is an encyclopedia of Novgorod architecture of the Middle Ages.
Currently, there is a museum in the building.
Charitable Foundation Holy Land
Russian Temples and Monasteries
