Is there an alter of Mila in Duma Altar?
The Duma Altar, a historical and cultural landmark in the city of Novgorod, Russia, has long been a subject of fascination and debate among historians and enthusiasts. One of the most intriguing questions that has been posed is whether there is an alter dedicated to Mila, a legendary figure in Novgorodian history. This article aims to explore this topic, examining the historical evidence and theories surrounding the existence of such an alter.
Mila, also known as Maria, was a 10th-century Novgorodian princess who played a significant role in the region’s political and cultural development. She was married to Vladimir, the Grand Prince of Kiev, and is often credited with introducing Christianity to Novgorod. Her legacy has been immortalized in various sources, including chronicles and folk tales.
The Duma Altar, constructed in the 12th century, is a grand wooden structure that once served as the assembly hall for the Novgorodian Duma, the governing body of the city. It is believed to be one of the oldest surviving wooden buildings in the world. The altar within the Duma Altar, known as the Iconostasis, is a wall of icons that separates the nave from the sanctuary. It is adorned with religious icons and is considered a sacred space.
The existence of an alter dedicated to Mila in the Duma Altar has been a topic of debate among scholars. Some argue that there is indeed an alter dedicated to her, while others claim that no such evidence exists. One of the main pieces of evidence cited by proponents of the existence of the Mila alter is the Novgorodian Chronicles, which mention Mila’s role in the city’s history.
According to the Chronicles, Mila was a patron of the church and played a significant role in the construction of several religious buildings in Novgorod. This has led some historians to believe that an alter dedicated to her may have been constructed within the Duma Altar. Additionally, some folk tales and oral traditions suggest that Mila was revered as a saint in the region, further fueling the debate.
However, there is a lack of concrete evidence to support the existence of an alter dedicated to Mila in the Duma Altar. The historical records are scarce, and the architectural evidence is inconclusive. Some scholars argue that the Duma Altar was primarily a secular building, used for political gatherings rather than religious ceremonies. As such, the presence of a Mila alter within the structure seems unlikely.
In conclusion, while the existence of an alter dedicated to Mila in the Duma Altar remains a topic of debate, the available evidence does not conclusively prove its existence. The Duma Altar, as a historical and cultural landmark, continues to be a source of fascination and speculation. Whether or not an alter dedicated to Mila exists within its walls, her legacy as a significant figure in Novgorodian history endures.
