Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Dormition

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Dormition in Knightsbridge stands as a physical meeting point between two distinct architectural traditions. While it functions today as the center of the Russian Orthodox Diocese of Sourozh, the building began its life in 1849 as an Anglican place of worship called All Saints. Its original architect, Lewis Vulliamy, ignored the prevailing Gothic trends of the Victorian era to pursue a Lombard style inspired by Northern Italy. This unique heritage remains visible on the exterior, where the western facade was specifically redesigned in 1891 to replicate the ancient Basilica of San Zeno in Verona.