Novocherkassk, Russia, June 25, 2018
Photo: TASS The 2018 FIFA World Cup, currently ongoing in various cities in Russia, has brought thousands of foreigners to Russia, many for the first time. In addition to attending soccer matches, the guests have the opportunity to get acquainted with Russian culture as well, including with Russian Orthodoxy.
Fans wondering around Moscow, St. Petersburg, Rostov-on-Don, and other cities stop into the many churches and monasteries, many of which have designated English-speaking tour guides for the duration of the World Cup.
For example, the manager of one of the Rostov travel agencies has reported to TASS that about 500 Mexican soccer fans have visited the Ascension Military Cathedral in Novocherkassk—the main church of the Don Cossacks, which is the main attraction in the city, located 25 miles from the regional center.
“The church in Novocherkassk is the third largest Orthodox cathedral in Russia; it is known outside of Russia too,” the source told TASS. “Therefore, hundreds of foreign tourists have come here during the world championship. According to our information, just among Mexicans, more than 500 people have come here.”
In addition to the many Mexicans who have taken an interest in the cathedral, there have also been noticeable groups of Uruguayans, Brazilians, Koreans, and Swiss.
The Ascension Cathedral was laid and consecrated at the foundation of the city of Novocherkassk in 1805.
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