Temples & religious sites
Saints Boris and Gleb Church (Borisoglebsky)
Saints Boris and Gleb Church
This Russian Orthodox chapel is located on the border between Norway and Russia near Kirkenes. It is dedicated to Saints Boris and Gleb and serves as a religious landmark in a remote frontier region. Travelers visit this site to see the architecture of an Orthodox chapel in the Arctic and to experience the specific atmosphere of the Norway-Russia border area.
Getting There
The chapel is situated outside the main town of Kirkenes. The most practical way to reach the site is by rental car or organized local transport. The drive from the city centre takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes depending on road conditions.
Visit Duration
Because the site is a small chapel and a landmark, most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes here. This allows enough time to view the exterior and the immediate surroundings of the border zone.
When to Visit
The site is generally quiet and does not experience large crowds. Visitors should be mindful of the Arctic climate; winter months bring heavy snow and limited daylight, while summer offers midnight sun. It is advisable to check local border regulations and road accessibility before departing.
Nearby Points of Interest
The chapel can be combined with other local sites in the Kirkenes area:
- Pikevatnet: 2.4km
- Paatsjoki: 3.1km
- Saviomuseet: 7.7km
- Kirkenes–Bjørnevatn Line: 7.8km
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors