MOSCOW, November 16 (RIA Novosti) - A Russian Orthodox church is to be built in the historical centre of Havana, reports a Russian embassy official from the Cuban capital.
"This five-domed temple with a tent-like belfry is a joint design of Russian and Cuban experts," said the official.
The first stone was ceremoniously laid in the foundation of the future Russian church yesterday, in the presence of Metropolitan of Smolensk and Kaliningrad Cyril and Bishop of Yegorievsk Mark who were later received in audience by Cuban leader Fidel Castro. Arrangements are underway to begin construction work this January.
The temple is to be erected by Cuban builders, with part of materials brought from Russia, while the finishing will be done by Russian experts. The church will be under the jurisdiction of the Moscow patriarchate.
The Orthodox community in Cuba is about 2,000 people strong.
