“Dig Under” is an odd name, isn’t it? That’s the nickname of the Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom. It’s a historical landmark right here in Moscow.
Let me tell you a story about this unique church. The Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom sits in the Zamoskvorechye district. It stands proudly on the right bank of the Moscow River. Specifically, it’s at the intersection of Raushskaya embankment and 2nd Raushsky lane.
The history of the Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom is quite remarkable. First mentioned in the late 15th century, its unusual name has an interesting origin. A legend tells of a merchant who deeply revered St. Nicholas. This merchant lost all his wealth. He prayed fervently for help. St. Nicholas appeared to him in a dream. The saint instructed him to dig under the church wall. He should take the precious stones from his revered icon’s covering. He was to sell it and use the money to start trading again. When his wealth returned, he should replace the covering. The merchant followed these instructions. The parishioners were amazed. They spread the story. That is how the Church of St. Nicholas got its nickname “Dig Under”.
The church’s history is long and eventful. The first church on this site was made of wood. It was mentioned in 1518. A stone church replaced it in 1652. Over time, the building suffered damage. In 1741, Muscovites and Turchaninovs started building a new stone church. But the unfinished building collapsed in 1743. Construction continued. By 1759, under the guidance of architect Dmitry Ukhtomsky, the Church of St. Nicholas was completed.
The Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom was fortunate during the Fire of 1812. Fire did not touch the church. However, Napoleon’s soldiers looted its interior.
In the 1930s, the Soviets closed the Church of St. Nicholas. They turned it into a plastics factory. There were plans to demolish the church in 1939. But only the cupolas and upper tiers of the bell tower were dismantled. The church was returned to the Church in 1991. It was recently added to the list of national monuments for preservation. Restoration work is ongoing as you can see.
Today, the Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom stands as a symbol of faith and resilience. It is a reminder of Moscow’s rich history. It is a testament to the enduring power of belief. As you stand here, imagine the merchant digging under the wall. Picture the parishioners marveling at the returned wealth. Feel the spirit of St. Nicholas watching over this sacred place. The Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom continues to inspire hope.