The Cathedral of the Nativity is a fine example of Russian architecture in Chisinau. It was built in the early 19th century, and was designed by the architect Avraam Melnikov; One of the finest architects of the Russian Empire of that period. Like most of the city's religious buildings, it was converted into an exhibition center during the Soviet era and only recently made a comeback as a place of worship, with beautifully painted walls in the purely Orthodox style.