After decades of state-sponsored atheism, Cuba is rediscovering religion. In the capital Havana, Russian Orthodoxy is making its mark. An Orthodox Cathedral is under construction in the city centre.

Friendship between Cuba and Russia was once based on mutual communist goals but is now being rebuilt by the Orthodox religion.

An Orthodox Cathedral is under construction in central Havana.

The ‘before’ pictures are a little obscured by scaffolding, but if the longed for ‘after’ picture is anything to go by, the end result should be stunning.

Cuban architect Sanchez believes it’s all done with the hope of re-pointing the cement in the Cuban-Russian relationship.

“For so many years Cuba and the Soviet Union were together, of course now the relationship has changed, but who says that old friends can’t become new friends again?” he asks.

The whole project has the support of Cuban leader, Fidel Castro.

Cuba was declared officially atheist in 1959 but laws restraining religion were relaxed over ten years ago, and religious conviction as well as new churches is flourishing on the island.

Recently a Greek Orthodox Church was built, and Castro’s improved relationship with religious leaders was immortalised in mosaic. So with the Greek Church built and the Russian one coming along, who will be the congregation?

There are an estimated 8,000 Orthodox Christians living in Havana and after years of religious drought, enthusiasm for the old faith is growing. And they shouldn’t have to wait too long to have ceremonies in the Russian Church.

Father Vladimir, an architect as well as a priest, has been casting his professional and spiritual eye over the Church’s progress. Even he is amazed at the progress made by constructors.

“I was here a year ago. What has been done during this year, how much has been done, it’s just amazing,” he said.

However, there’s still something missing from the typical Russian Orthodox design.

The Cubans are expecting a delivery of onion-shaped domes and Russian bells at the end of the month.