Peek into history of Russia at St Michael the Archangel church in Cannes, France

There are many things to do in Cannes, France. However, if you have tried them all and want to do something different, take a short walk from the famous Boulevard de la Croisette to see the Russian Orthodox church. The exterior architecture is beautiful. The interiors of St Michael the Archangel are done following the traditions of the Russian Orthodox church. There are many icons, and the walls are painted with frescoes.

The church also has a basement that is a museum and has many interesting items with history. Two cousins of Nicholas II, the last Russian emperor, are buried there with their wives: Grand Duke Nicholas and his wife Anastasia and Grand Duke Peter and his wife Militsa. They lived in France in exile after fighting a brutal civil war that started after the 1917 revolution. Grand Duke Nicholas was well respected by the soldiers and officers. Many of them had to emigrate to France. When Grand Duke died, they brought many military regiment flags as a tribute to his service.

The tomb of Helene Vagliano is also in the basement. She was awarded the title of Heroine of France for being a leader of the French Resistance during World War II. She was captured and killed by the German Gestapo in August 1944.

The priest is friendly and happy to explain the story behind each item. If you like history, the Russian Orthodox church in Cannes is worth exploring.

Beautiful architecture of a famous villa in French Riviera