Luninets. The Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

The Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in Luninets has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally, there was a wooden church on this site, built in 1816. This wooden temple served as a spiritual center for the local population, but over time it became dilapidated and needed to be replaced.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, the population of Luninets, which became a large railway station, increased significantly. Accordingly, there were more parishioners. The old wooden church, which until that moment needed major repairs, no longer corresponded to the time, so the question was raised about the construction of a new brick church on the same place where the old temple stood.

In the period from 1912 to 1921, a new brick church was built on the site of the old wooden church. The construction of the new church was made possible thanks to the active efforts of the local Orthodox community and the support of patrons.

In the spring of 1912, the foundation was laid, as evidenced by a copper plaque embedded in the wall. At the end of the summer, the new building already had a foundation and a base made of cobblestone, brick walls, window frames made of old beams of the former church. The construction was carried out without detailed drawings, but according to the contractor's personal understanding. Despite everyone's efforts, there was always a shortage of funds. Then the First World War, the October Revolution, and the Civil War became obstacles to construction. However, with the help of God and with public support, the stone church finally rose in 1922.

The facades of the temple are decorated with exquisite decorative elements, including ornaments and carved details. The temple is crowned with a high central dome and several side domes, which symbolizes the heavenly kingdom. The bell tower is also an important element of architecture, adding grandeur to the overall appearance of the building. Above the powerful arched portal, which makes up the design of the main entrance, there is an arched window-biforium, located on a cocoon casing. Keeled kokoshniks are characteristic for the decoration of the bell tower faces, while brick decor is used for unpainted walls. The latter includes an arched frieze, flat figured and conch niches and triangular pediments.

Inside the church there are many icons and relics that are of great importance to believers. Murals and frescoes decorate the walls and vaults of the temple, creating an atmosphere of reverence and spiritual elevation. Altars and iconostases are richly decorated and attract attention with their beauty.

The Church continues to play an important role in the spiritual life of the local community. The church regularly hosts worship services, as well as various religious and cultural events.

The Church of the Exaltation of the Cross of the Lord is a monument of architecture of the Russian style and an important part of the cultural heritage of Luninets. It attracts many tourists and pilgrims who come to see its architectural beauty and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of spirituality.