The Cathedral of Our Lady of Fatima, the largest Catholic church in Kazakhstan, is a stunning, majestic landmark in Karaganda. Although it is a modern structure, built in the first decade of the 21st century, its design echoes that of a medieval castle. This Karaganda cathedral is a unique “remake” of the famous Cologne Cathedral, an iconic example of Gothic architecture.
Serving as the seat of the Karaganda Diocese under Bishop Adelio Dell’Oro, it is the largest Catholic cathedral in both Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Its brick walls are clad in shell stone, and between the bell towers stands a white marble statue of Our Lady of Fatima. Inside, the cathedral is adorned with tiled frescoes, stained glass, and a gilded altar featuring intricately carved wooden details. A grand diorama within the cathedral depicts biblical scenes, and for a modest fee, visitors can enjoy an informative lecture on the life of Christ, available in multiple languages.
The cathedral houses the largest pipe organ in the country, which is frequently used in concert performances, often accompanied by the local symphony orchestra.
The idea to construct a new cathedral in Karaganda was initiated by Bishop Jan Paul Lenga. In response, the Karaganda Diocese requested a plot of land from city officials, who granted it on May 13, 2003, the anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima. It was decided that the new cathedral would be inspired by Cologne Cathedral in Germany, with the design created by German architect Karl-Maria Ruf and adapted to Kazakh conditions by architect V. G. Sergeyev.
In 2004, the “Society for the Construction of the Cathedral of the Mother of All Nations,” founded by Agnes Ritter in Viktorsberg, Austria, pledged to support the cathedral’s construction. Bishop Athanasius Schneider also played a vital role in the building and furnishing of the cathedral. On September 9, 2012, the grand consecration ceremony took place, conducted by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Dean of the College of Cardinals and papal legate of Pope Benedict XVI.