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Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

This historic Orthodox Christian monastery is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Kyiv, offering a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of Ukraine.

Foundation of the Kyiv Monastery of the Caves

Located on the right bank of the Dnipro River, the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is a complex of stunning churches and underground catacombs. With its origins dating back to the 11th century, the Lavra has played a significant role in the spiritual and cultural life of Kyiv for centuries.

“Pechery” means “caves” in Ukrainian and as the name implies, the monastery began from the caves. The Primary Chronicles tells that the first cave on the Dnipro slopes was dug out by monks in the 10th century.

These holy men sought solitude and a place for spiritual contemplation, choosing the scenic hills overlooking the Dnipro River. The caves, which form an integral part of the Lavra, were serving as secluded cells for meditation and prayer. Over the centuries, the Lavra has evolved into a center of Orthodox Christianity, attracting pilgrims from far and wide.

Historical significance of the Lavra Caves

In 1062, the monks built a church and a monastery on the ground of the area around the caves. Since then, the monks chose to reside underground, using the caves as their dwelling, while also serving as a final resting place in the form of a cemetery.

While some monks continued to reside within the caves, these devoted hermits and monks dedicated their entire lives to prayer. Intentionally secluding themselves within the damp cave passages, they embraced the darkness as they prayed. Through the small openings in the walls they obtained water and a piece of bread.

Over the course of centuries, numerous cathedrals, churches, houses, and gardens sprouted around the caves. The monastery’s autonomy from princely authority, unlike other monasteries, played a pivotal role.

As a result, by the late 11th century, it had evolved into the most esteemed, expansive, and prosperous monastic community in Kyivan Rus, while also establishing itself as a remarkable cultural hub.

The monks who lived in the caves were also buried there after their death. It is with the Far Caves, where the relics of 49 saints are kept, began the history of the monastery. Among others, there are relics of Saint Nestor the Chronicler, author of the Primary Chronicle.

Relics of Ilya Muromets — the folk hero of Kyivan Rus, a “bogatyr” (akin to knight-errant) and a character of many East Slavic medieval epic poems. Although Ilya Muromets’s adventures are mostly a matter of epic fiction, he is believed to have a historical prototype: a medieval warrior, and in later life a monk, named Ilya Pechersky.

Monastery after Mongol invasion

During the invasion of Batu Khan in 1240, the monastery was partially destroyed but didn’t cease to exist. The situation was significantly improved after the transition of Kyiv under the authority of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania: Lithuanian princes supported Christianity and provided benefits and estates to the Pechersky Monastery.

In 1522, the Polish King Sigismund I issued a special diploma granting the monks independence from local authorities and the freedom to select their Archimandrite. This event marked the monastery’s increased prosperity and growth in wealth.

Towards the late 17th century, a significant stone construction took place in Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Furthermore, during the latter half of the 18th century, magnificent baroque ensembles were established in the Upper Lavra, including the imposing Great Bell Tower and the restored Dormition Cathedral.

Kyiv-Pechersk National Sanctuary

kiev-pechersk-lavra
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

Book a private tour to Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery and Caves with an expert English-speaking guide in Kyiv and learn more about this unique place.
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The architectural ensemble of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

In the 19th – the beginning of the 20th century the architectural ensemble of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra acquired its perfection. Covered galleries were constructed, connecting the Near Caves to the Far Caves, and a fortified wall enclosed the cave complex.

The guest yard saw the addition of residential buildings for pilgrims, a hospital, a new refectory, and a library. Notably, the Lavra printing house, one of Kyiv’s significant publishing houses, operated within the monastery.

In the early 20th century, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra was home to approximately 500 monks and 600 novices. They resided in four interconnected monasteries: Pechersk Monastery, St. Nicholas Monastery, Holy Trinity Hospital, and in the Near and Far Caves.

Additionally, the Lavra possessed three desert lands on the outskirts of Kyiv: Holosiivska, Kitaevskaya, and Preobrazhenskaya.

Monastery life after the WWII

With the onset of the Nazi occupation of Kyiv, a systematic looting of the treasures of Kyiv Pechersk Lavra commenced, as they were transported to Germany.

In November 1941, the Uspensky Cathedral was tragically destroyed by explosives. Left unattended and lacking proper supervision, the remaining structures began to deteriorate rapidly.

After the Second World War, the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery faced significant challenges due to the political and social changes brought about by Soviet rule. The monastery was closed by Soviet authorities in 1961, and its treasures were looted and destroyed. Many of the monks were arrested and sent to labor camps or executed.

Despite these challenges, the monastery managed to survive, and in 1988, it was reopened for religious services. Restoration work began, and many of the historic buildings were rebuilt or restored to their former glory.

In 1990, Kyiv Pechersk Lavra was honored with the prestigious designation of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging its significant cultural and historical significance.

Today, the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery is once again a vibrant and active religious center, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history.

Despite the challenges it has faced, the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery remains a symbol of Ukraine’s spiritual and cultural heritage and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Book a Private Tour to Kiev Pechersk Lavra with a professional English-speaking guide in Kyiv and learn more about this unique place.
myukraine4u@gmail.com