Russian occupants are ruthlessly destroying Mariupol. They destroyed a monument to one of the founders of the city, Metropolitan Ignatius. As a result of the Russian military's shelling, the St. Michael's Cathedral was damaged.

This is proof that the shelling of Mariupol was carried out chaotically, targeting peaceful homes, churches, as well as hospitals and mass shelters of people. Russian fascists have nothing sacred," the city council said.

St Michael's Cathedral was described by Mariupol's tourist office as "the most beautiful place" in the city's Left Bank district.

Offering "panoramic views of the Sea of ​​Azov, green hills and coastal villages", the cathedral - opened in 1997 - attracted both worshippers and visitors alike, it said.

But after weeks of relentless Russian bombardment on the southern port city, the Orthodox cathedral's crowning dome is now a mangled heap of exposed steel and smashed brickwork.

The cathedral's glass windows have been shattered, and gaping holes have been blown through its red-brick walls.