52 Weeks of Fun

Not Just Destination Finders, But Destination Storytellers

National Park Service

Russian Bishops House

A visit to this meticulously preserved landmark offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Russian Orthodox clergy. It tells a story of those who once resided within its walls, as well as the intricate artistry and craftsmanship that define its architecture and interior design.

Upon approaching the Russian Bishop's House, one is immediately struck by its imposing presence, its distinctive green roof and white facade contrasting beautifully against the backdrop of the surrounding Sitka National Historical Park. Stepping inside, visitors are transported back in time, as they wander through the house's meticulously restored rooms, each adorned with period furnishings, religious icons, and decorative objects that reflect the opulence and refinement of the Russian Orthodox Church. The house's centerpiece, the Bishop's Chapel, features a magnificent iconostasis, or icon screen, adorned with gilded icons and intricate carvings, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the residence.

A guided tour of the house provides a wealth of information on the history of Russian America and the role of the Russian Orthodox Church in shaping the region's cultural landscape. Visitors learn about the daily lives of the bishops and their staff, the challenges they faced in this remote outpost of the Russian Empire, and their contributions to the development of Sitka and its surrounding communities. The tour also highlights the architectural and artistic significance of the house, showcasing the intricate woodcarvings, decorative moldings, and painted ceilings that adorn its interior.

As visitors explore the house's various rooms, they encounter a treasure trove of historical artifacts, from religious vestments and liturgical objects to personal belongings of the bishops and their families. These objects offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the lives of those who once inhabited this remarkable dwelling. The house's library, with its collection of rare books and manuscripts, provides a glimpse into the intellectual and spiritual pursuits of the Russian clergy.

Alaska International Travel Association
Trip Advisor

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Russian Bishops House

The Russian Bishops House is one of the oldest surviving remnants of Russian ownership of Alaska.

Attraction Advice



Trip Advisor

The house was constructed in 1842 by the Russian-American Company for the Russian Orthodox Bishop Innocent (later canonized as St. Innocent), who played a crucial role in the religious and cultural life of the Russian colony in Alaska.
Wikipedia

The house's interiors have been restored to reflect the 19th-century period when it was used as the residence and administrative center for the Russian Orthodox Church in Alaska, with furnishings, religious artifacts, and other items on display.
Yelp

The building is an excellent example of Russian colonial architecture, featuring traditional log construction with detailed woodwork and a distinctive steep roof. It has been meticulously restored to reflect its original appearance.
Trip Advisor

The house is one of the few surviving examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America. It is part of the Sitka National Historical Park and is a significant reminder of Alaska's Russian heritage.

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  • Sponsored by: Visit Sitka
  • Russian Bishops House
  • Sitka AK
  • (907) 747-0110