The monasteries of Moscow, the spiritual centers of our capital, are favorite places for pilgrimage and historical sights that are often visited by residents of other countries and cities. There are both women's and men's monasteries in Moscow, which keep many ancient Orthodox shrines. Monastic buildings adorn the city, and the Russian an Orthodox person I would often like to attend the service in the monastery. In Moscow, there are about half a dozen ancient monasteries and relatively new monasteries. We will try to introduce you to the monasteries of Moscow, which will be interesting to visit as a pilgrim or tourist.
Perhaps you would like to visit the Novodevichy or Novospassky Monasteries, see the Don icon, or simply learn about the existing monasteries of the city. Of course, we must not forget that God hears our prayer not only in the monasteries and monasteries of Moscow - this is not a mysterious "place of power" where prayer becomes special, but the opportunity to visit beautiful and prayerful monasteries is a great joy for Orthodox believers. Before going to the monasteries of Moscow, do not forget to clarify whether they are open for visiting. Some monasteries live closed lives and do not always allow pilgrims.
Novodevichy Convent
Novodevichy Convent is not only one of the most beautiful places in Moscow, but also one of the most ancient. Among all the monasteries in Moscow, he is also distinguished by the fact that he belongs to Historical Museum cities. The Novodevichy Convent was founded in 1524, since then it has been closely linked with the history of our country. The monastery played an important and sometimes dramatic role in the destinies of famous Russian women.
During the capture of the Lithuanians, then ruling Ivan III, the father of Ivan the Terrible, made a vow - if they succeed in liberating Smolensk, a large monastery will be founded in Moscow, in gratitude to the Most Holy Theotokos. Smolensk was an important state outpost. When Smolensk was liberated, Ivan III kept his promise and began the construction of the Novodevichy Convent. It is believed that the monastery was erected exactly on the place where once young girls were selected who would go to the full. The Moscow parishioners immediately liked the monastery, because it is no secret that it is located in a picturesque place.
Despite the fact that the monastery belongs to a museum and is a historical heritage of the city, services are held in the churches of this monastery in Moscow.
The address of the monastery: Moscow, Novodevichy passage, 1
Donskoy monastery
The Donskoy Monastery has always been surrounded by legends and amazing events. In the summer of 1591, Moscow was alarmed by the impending invasion of the Crimean Khan. All day a terrible battle went on at the ford across the Moskva River. There was also a miraculous icon of the Don Mother of God, which, according to legend, also helped the soldiers of the Kuklikovo battle. According to an ancient legend, the Crimean Khan fled thanks to the prayer before the Don icon and the intercession of the Mother of God.
So, on the site of the Russian camp, the Donskoy Monastery arose. Boris Godunov built the main cathedral of the monastery. Since then, the miraculous Don icon of the Mother of God has been considered the patroness and intercessor of Moscow. Thanks to the help of the Mother of God, Tamerlane and other invaders fled from the city walls. The monastery has a wonderful quiet life, far from the noise of the big city. Moscow's monasteries are called abodes of mercy and flower beds of learning. Donskoy Monastery is a striking representative of the most beautiful monasteries in Moscow.
One of the main Orthodox miracles of the monastery is the amazing discovery of the relics of St. Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia.
It is always nice to walk next to a beautiful monastery in the shade of linden trees and an apple orchard and take a break from the hustle and bustle, pray in the beautiful temples of the monastery and admire the wonderful views.
The address of the monastery: Moscow, pl. Donskaya, 1
Novospassky monastery
The Novospassky Monastery is called the first abode of Moscow. It is located on Taganka. Each monastery has its own history and saints, but this monastery is really considered special. Previously, it was called "Savior on the New", and the monastery became the heir to two other ancient monasteries. One of them was founded in the 13th century by Prince Daniel of Moscow, the son of the faithful Prince Alexander Nevsky. On the site of this monastery, the Danilov monastery is now located. Another monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior, which was destined to become the first monastic abode of the city.
Under the great Tsar of Moscow Ivan III, the Kremlin was transformed. The wooden chambers are replaced by stone chambers. The Spassky Monastery was constrained by new buildings, and Ivan III ordered to move it. In the new position, the monastery began to be called Novospassky.
Many rulers and saints of Russia found protection here, and some entered the political arena. Even False Dmitry tried to use the authority of the Novospassky monastery to strengthen his power. This monastery had battle walls and could withstand an attack. The walls of the Novospassky Monastery are real ancient fortress walls, which is why tourists love to visit it so much. In addition, the monastery once became the burial vault of the Romanovs' ancestors. It was from this family that the royal dynasty subsequently emerged.
The address of the monastery: Moscow, pl. Peasant outpost, 10
St. Andrew's Monastery
St. Andrew's Monastery is located in one of the most beautiful places in Moscow. Previously, the monastery was called "Preobrazhenskaya Hermitage". It is located on the territory of the Vorobyovy Gory reserve and the banks of the Moskva River. The monastery was founded in the 16th century, however, this is only speculation. The first found documentary evidence of the monastery dates back to this time. Historians believe that the monastery belongs to much more early period and possibly has existed since the 13th century.
Andreevskaya monastery suffered greatly during the years of theomachy. With the fall of the USSR, church life was gradually revived in the Andreevsky Monastery. They even organized the Patriarch's Compound and the Synodal Library. And in 1992, the bells returned to the belfry. Monastic life was revived here as well. A comprehensive school has been operating on the territory of the monastery for fifteen years.
Pilgrims and visitors to the monastery can see with their own eyes how the beautiful monastery is gradually being revived. To visit the St. Andrew's Monastery actually means to witness the new history of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Address: Moscow, Andreevskaya embankment, 2
Vysoko-Petrovsky Monastery
The Vysoko-Petrovsky Monastery was founded in 1315 by the first saint of the capital - Metropolitan Peter. Once he was outside Moscow, in the village of Vysokoe. The Vysoko-Petrovsky Monastery is a masterpiece of Moscow architecture, which was decorated under Peter the Great. The monastery has become a unique monument of the spiritual glory of its founders.
Under Peter I, the monastery was expanded. Many buildings in it were built in memory of the Naryshkins. The Bogolyubsky temple is a visible monument of the Naryshkin burial. So closely related to the history of Russia, the monastery is a favorite place for tourists.
It is here that unique architectural monuments are located. Many people associate the Vysoko-Petrovsky Monastery precisely with the history of Russia during the time of Peter I, but connoisseurs of architecture will also be interested in visiting the beautiful ancient monastery. The monastery is considered small, but you should definitely visit it. For half a century on the territory of the monastery there is an amazing eight-leafed temple - the stone cathedral of Metropolitan Peter, built by the famous Italian architect Aleviz Novy. Atypical and unique building.
Address: Moscow, st. m. Trubnaya, st. Petrovka, 28/2
Conception Monastery
Back in the XIV century, the Alekseevskaya monastery appeared in Russia. It was named after the Monk Alexei, and it was the first convent in Moscow. Women's monasteries existed before, the first was founded by Yaroslav the Wise, but usually they were part of men's monasteries. Therefore, the Alekseevsky monastery is mistakenly called the first in Russia, it was the first for Moscow. The exact date of its foundation is known - 1360. It is believed that the first nuns of this monastery were Juliana and Eupraxia - the sisters of Metropolitan Alexy. They were known for their mercy and humility.
It is this monastery that is called the Conception in our times. The Conception Convent adorns the Khamovniki district. She suffered greatly during the atheist years, like many other temples and monasteries. Some of the nuns were arrested or sucked. The monastery buildings turned into a prison and a juvenile colony. In the 90s of the XX century, the revival of the shrine began. Now the monastery ensemble includes four overground churches and an underground temple of the Assumption.
The Conception Monastery is known for the fact that the Savior Church on the territory of the monastery was the home church of the Rimsky-Korsakov family.
The address of the monastery: Moscow, per. 2nd Zachatyevsky, 2
Martha and Mary Convent
The Martha and Mary Convent is located in the Zamoskvorechye region. The snow-white temple is strikingly different from the architecture of old Moscow. It was located where the path to the Golden Horde once ran - on Bolshaya Ordynka. The austerity of architecture is characteristic of the abode of mercy. The monastery is called the "pearl" of Zamoskvorechye. After the death of her husband, Elizaveta Feodorovna Romanova bought the estate on Bolshaya Ordynka and established a monastery of mercy and labor there.
The granddaughter of Queen Victoria of England was raised as a Christian from childhood, having married the Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich, she converted to Orthodoxy and did this not formally, but made her choice with her soul. After the death of her husband, Elizaveta Feodorovna left secular life and at her own expense created a monastery in which she wanted to revive the ancient institution of deaconesses. The sisters of the monastery could leave the territory of the monastery to help the weak and sick.
The Grand Duchess was anxious about monasticism, but did not create Martha-Mariinsky monastery like a monastery. The closed life of the monastery contradicted the idea of \u200b\u200bactively helping the suffering and neighbors so that anyone could turn there. In the monastery of mercy, the sisters gave their lives to their neighbors for God free of charge.
The sisters who live here still work in hospitals and hospitals. An orphanage has been opened in the monastery; here they feed the poor and help the suffering. The church contains several rare icons of Martha and Mary, the spiritual patrons of the monastery. One of them has been preserved since the time of Elizabeth Feodorovna.
Monastery address: Moscow, st. m. Polyanka, st. Bolshaya Ordynka, 34
Pokrovsky monastery
The Intercession Monastery is known not only in Moscow, because it is here that the relics of the blessed Matrona of Moscow are kept. Pilgrims from all over the country come here to the relics of St. Matrona. The ancient Pokrovsky Monastery is always filled with people. This is the most visited monastery in Moscow. On weekends, up to fifty thousand people visit it. The monastery also contains unique Orthodox shrines.
Blessed Matrona is one of the most revered saints among the people, therefore it is crowded in the monastery on weekdays.
The Intercession Monastery was founded in 1635 by Tsar Mikhail Fedorovich. Then it was called the abode of the "Protection on squalid houses". It is interesting that the Pokrovskaya wooden church existed even before the foundation of the monastery on this site. It is believed that the monastery was founded after the death of the father of Tsar Mikhail Feodorovich - Patriarch Filaret, who died on the feast of the Intercession. And this is precisely the reason why a beautiful monastery appeared in Moscow.
The address of the monastery: Moscow, st. Taganskaya, 58
Trinity-Sergius Lavra
Probably, today in Russia there are no people who have never heard the name - Trinity-Sergius Lavra. Perhaps the monastery, founded 676 years ago by St. Sergius of Radonezh, is today the most famous in Russia. Inextricably linked with him the most important points history of Russia. The monastery took part in the struggle against the Tatar-Mongol yoke, opposed the supporters of the government of Lezhedmitry II during the Time of Troubles.
The monastery quickly became a cultural and religious center Russian state... Here manuscripts were copied, icons, chronicles were written. The outstanding icon painters Andrei Rublev and Daniil Cherny took part in the painting of the church itself. The famous Trinity of Andrei Rublev was painted for the iconostasis of the cathedral. The Lavra has always been a favorite place for pilgrims since the tsarist times. Ivan the Terrible was baptized in the monastery, and for Tsarevna Sophia Alekseevna, Tsarevich Ivan and Peter, he was a refuge. Even Peter I took refuge here when he fled from Moscow.
Today, people come to the Trinity-Sergius Lavra not only to pray, but also on excursions. Here you can see the Trinity Cathedral built in the 15th century, the Church of the Descent of the Holy Spirit on Cathedral Square, at the northern wall of which the relics of St. Maximus the Greek rest, the Assumption Cathedral, where the relics of Saints Philaret and Innocent are located, the Refectory Church, as well as the highest bell tower in Russia. 88.5 meters. It was from her that the tsar-bell was thrown and broken in the 20s. There are guided tours of the monastery for children and adults, they are conducted in different languages.
You can also visit the Sacristy of the Trinity-Sergius Lavra and see icons, handwritten old books, sewing works, gold and silver products. In addition, there are several healing springs where you can draw water.
At the end of Nevsky Prospekt in St. Petersburg there is the Alexander Nevsky Lavra - a current male monastery, as well as an oasis of Russian spiritual life on Monastyrsky Island. The decision to build a monastery on this site is attributed to Peter I. It is believed that in this place, where the Monastyrka river flows into the Neva, in 1240 there was a battle of the squad of Prince Alexander Nevsky over the Swedes. In memory of those events, as well as in honor of the victory over the Swedes in 1704, the monastery was given the name - Holy Trinity Alexander Nevsky Monastery.
It was founded in 1710. Later, the Church of the Annunciation and a chapel were built here, the construction of the monastery settlement, the Metropolitan House began. In 1797 the monastery acquired the highest status - the status of a lavra. The Trinity Cathedral of the Aleksanro-Nevskaya Lavra is the main one in the ensemble of the monastery. On the territory of the monastery there is the Lazarevskoye and Novo-Lazarevskoye cemeteries, where D.I. Fonvizin, M.V. Lomonosov, N.M. Karamzin, I.A. Krylov, V.A. Zhukovsky, F.M. Dostoevsky and other famous figures of the country.
The Alexander Nevsky Lavra is one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles in St. Petersburg. Tourists come to see the beauty and severity of the monastery buildings and bow their heads in front of the outstanding figures of Russia, who are buried here. Pilgrims arrive at the monastery to venerate the relics of St. Alexander Nevsky, which are in the Trinity Cathedral of the Lavra.
One of the most beautiful monasteries is Valaam, located on the island of Lake Ladoga in Karelia. The active male monastery is surrounded by water on all sides and seems to have been created for a quiet monastic life. The nature here is unusually beautiful, which even more attracts pilgrims and tourists here. This place is called North Athos. The beginning of the creation of the monastery here is associated with the activities of Sergius and Herman of Valaam Wonderworkers.
Throughout its history, the monastery has been repeatedly attacked and destroyed due to its proximity to the border with Sweden. But the monks themselves never took up arms, preferring to die. At the beginning of the 17th century, the monastery was even completely destroyed, but then the monastery of the monks was restored. At one time, Valaam was visited by Emperors Alexander I and Alexander II, other members of the imperial family, painters Shishkin, Vasiliev, Kuindzhi, writers and poets Leskov, Tyutchev, Shmelev, Zaitsev, composers Tchaikovsky and Glazunov, scientists Miklukho-Maclay, Mendeleev, etc.
Today, pilgrims can visit Valaam only through a special pilgrimage service. Guests are received here in a hotel, arranged in the cells of the monastery. Here you can just relax in silence from the bustle of the world, take part in divine services, visit monastic exhibitions, and even learn various types of arts and crafts yourself.
Novodevichy Convent
The monastery was founded in the 16th century in the suburbs of Moscow on Devichye Pole. The cathedral church of the monastery was built on the model of the Kremlin's Assumption Cathedral. The walls and towers of the monastery were built in the XVI-XVII, and most of the buildings are made in the Moscow Baroque style.
Representatives of the royal and princely families, including the Grand Duchess Sofya Alekseevna, are buried here. Also, guests of the monastery can visit the graves of the poet Davydov, the writer Chekhov, in the new cemetery of the monastery Gogol, Bulgakov and many figures of Russian culture are buried.
Today, some of the buildings and cathedrals are run by the museum, others belong to the monastery. The Novodevichy Convent houses the revered Smolensk and Tikhvin (16th century) icons of the Mother of God.
In the Vologda Region, on the shore of Lake Siverskoye, there is the Kirillo-Belozersky (also Kirillov) Orthodox monastery. It was founded in 1397 by the monks Kirill Belozersky - a follower of Sergius of Radonezh and Ferapont Belozersky. At that time, the monastery was a kind of outpost of the Moscow state in the enemy lands of the Novgorod Republic. There is an interesting historical detail - in 1528, Grand Duke Vasily III went to the St. Cyril Monastery with Princess Elena Glinskaya to pray for the gift of an heir. And he was born - the future Tsar Ivan the Terrible, who all his life considered himself obliged to the monastery for his birth and before his death became a venerable. In 1722 Peter I came to the monastery. Now part of the buildings of the monastery belongs to the Historical-Architectural and Art Museum-Reserve.
Pilgrims can visit the temples and museums of the monastery. In the church of St. Cyril of Belozersky, his relics rest. A copy of the first wooden cell of the Monk Cyril and the cross erected by the monks at the settlement have been preserved. Not far from the monastery, on Mount Maura, a wooden chapel was built and a worship cross was erected.
Optina Hermitage is one of the most ancient Russian monasteries. The Orthodox monastery is located near the city of Kozelsk in the Kaluga region. The exact time of its foundation is unknown, however, according to legend, the Hermitage existed even before the invasion of Russia by the Mongol Tatars.
It is believed that the founder of the Desert was a repentant robber named Optin. At first, the monastery consisted of only one wooden church and about a dozen monks who lived in simple cells. After a while, it was destroyed and revived only at the end of the 18th century. New churches were built, residential buildings for brethren, a refectory, a library, a mill, and even a tile and brick factories appeared.
At one time, Gogol and Dostoevsky were here. Today, guests of the monastery can even see the houses where great writers stayed. Dostoevsky's impressions of the trip are described in the novel The Brothers Karamazov. And the prototype of Elder Zosima was the Elder Ambrose of the Optina Skete. In general, the Optinskaya Pustyn is famous for its inhabitants. Legends continue to circulate about amazing elders and miracle workers of the Desert. Some of them - healers of body and soul - are canonized. Outside Russia, Optina Pustyn is also known. The story of the killing of three monks on Easter in 1993 shocked many.
And today, pilgrims come here primarily in the hope of receiving healing. The monastery includes the main temple - the Vvedensky Cathedral, the Church of Mary of Egypt, the Kazan Church, Vladimirskaya, behind the monastery grove there is a skete, in which round-the-clock services are held.
Solovki
The Solovetsky Monastery is located on the Solovetsky Islands in the White Sea, between the Arkhangelsk region and Karelia. Solovki is well known both in Russia and abroad. The first monks settled here in the 17th century. The monastery established here was supported by Veliky Novgorod and Moscow. It soon became one of the largest in the country. Suffered the attack of the Swedes, was ravaged by the tsarist troops
After the change state system prisoners began to be exiled to Solovki. Alexander Solzhenitsyn dedicated entire chapters of his novel "The Gulag Archipelago" to the Solovki. Only in the 60s of the last century began to restore the monastery here.
Today tourists and pilgrims can visit the unique history museum, the local Kremlin, the Church of the Ascension, the Botanical Garden, the Filippovskie Islets, the labyrinths of the Big Zayatsky Island - one of them is the largest in the world, the Muksalm Dam, a man-made system of canals and lakes. Also here was built the Church of St. Andrew the First-Called, founded by Peter I.
These are just a few attractions located on Solovki. Three days are not enough to see everything. But the most important thing that attracts tourists here is the unique nature. The purest water of the lakes, a magnificent view from the islands.
The functioning monasteries of Russia are not only a cultural heritage of world significance, but also an important institution of Orthodoxy, where a special energy is born, the fundamental teachings of the holy miracle workers.
In monasteries, elders and monks pray for the sinful souls of the whole world. To visit the functioning monasteries of Russia is not just to enjoy ancient temples and icons, everyone can touch amazing life saints and absorb a drop of wonderful, monastic energy.
After the collapse of the USSR, many monasteries resumed their work, some were restored later by the efforts of parishioners. All of them are open to pilgrims and parishioners; in some of them you can stay for several weeks as a volunteer, laborer and novice.
Women's monasteries in Russia, where you can come and live
You can come to many women's monasteries in Russia to live for a few weeks and become a worker or volunteer, that is, work and pray in the name of the Lord. Women and girls often come who are in difficult life situations, stand at a crossroads, or want to help the monastery with their work.
According to many volunteers, this is an incredible experience that stays for a lifetime and protects from all adversity and difficulties.
Pokrovsky monastery
The Intercession Women's Stavropegic Monastery, where the relics and the miraculous icon of Staritsa Matrona are located, can be called the most famous in Moscow.
Pilgrims and parishioners from all over Russia come here to touch the relics and the icon of the Venerable Matrona. The saint favors girls, so pregnant girls or those who cannot find a life partner often come here. Here you can stay for a few weeks and work in a monastery.
Holy Trinity Seraphim-Diveevsky Monastery
The monastery suffered greatly during the Soviet era, many nuns were forced to hide from the authorities, and lived as nuns in the world.
It was here that the Monk Wonderworker Seraphim of Sorovsk lived, where his relics are kept. Many parishioners tell about miracles that happened to them after worshiping the relics and the icon. After the collapse of the USSR, the monastery was restored and gained fame as a cure for diseases. Pilgrims come to pray for health, for the power of faith, for healing from diseases.
The monastery is located in the town of Diveevo near Arzamas.
St. Peter and Paul Convent
The monastery was created in the XIII century, but later abolished by Catherine the Great, and later reopened.
Various workshops worked here: icon painting and chasing, a parish school and a hospital. During the years of the USSR, the monastery was closed and revived only in 2002.
The monastery is located near Khabarovsk, where a special bus runs.
The largest Orthodox monasteries in Russia
The largest monasteries are not just separate monasteries, they are a whole, closed world with many complexes, temples, cathedrals and courtyards. Pilgrims, novices and volunteers from all over the Orthodox world go to such monasteries to pray for the health of their families, for the Glory of God and peace on earth.
Trinity-Sergius Lavra
One of the oldest complexes, which is located in the city of Sergiev Posad, near Moscow.
It was founded in the XIV century. Now it is a large ensemble of cathedrals and temples, where anyone can come. The Lavra contains the relics of 9 saints, including Sergius of Radonezh and Maxim the Greek.
Now the Lavra, in addition to a spiritual, religious life, leads social projects and charity. Activists help people in military service, in prison and in difficult life situations.
Pskov-Pechersky Monastery
The famous men's monastery, the life of which is described in the book "Not Holy Saints".
An ancient fortress monastery, one of the few cloisters that continued its work in the USSR. There are miraculous icons, lives and relics of the Saints, the famous Archimandrite John Krestyankin lived in the monastery. You can come here on an excursion and remain a novice and volunteer.
In addition to the main temples, there are caves on the territory where monks lived and prayed. They can be visited by special appointment.
The monastery is located in Pskov.
Valaam monastery
The monastery is located on the Valaam Island on Lake Ladoga, near the border with Finland.
A large courtyard and a complex of temples and cathedrals are visited by thousands of people every day. Here you can stay as a novice and volunteer, as well as pray for the health of your family or go on an excursion.
The most famous monasteries in Russia
Almost every inhabitant of Russia knows about these monasteries, the centuries-old history, miraculous icons and miracle-working Saints who served in monasteries made them immortal.
Optina desert
One of the most famous and revered monasteries in Russia. People come here from all over Russia for help and advice from the elders.
Miraculous icons and prayer help to gain health, faith and love. You can get to the monastery from the city of Kozelsk, which is located in the Kaluga region.
Novodevichy Convent in Moscow
The Big Compound is located in Moscow and has a long history.
It was here that Tsarevna Sophia, the elder sister of Peter I, spent the rest of her days. The nunnery can be visited as a parishioner, as well as become a novice. Lonely girls often come here to pray in search of help in finding a life partner.
Alexander-Svirsky monastery
The male monastery was founded in the 15th century by the saint, the Monk Alexander of Svirsky among the dense forests, in the habitat of the pagan tribes of Corells, Vepsians and Chudi.
The saint is famous for his religious exploits, which are described in his life and recounted in the temple. In the temple, special places of worship and manifestations of the holy spirit to Alexander Svirsky are designated.
Here lie the relics of Alexander Svirsky, a consecrated copy of the famous Turin shroud, which eventually began to stream myrrh. People from all over the country come to see and pray at the great shrine.
Stavropegic monasteries in Russia
Stavropegic monasteries are those monasteries that are directly subordinate to the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, as well as the synod, and are not subject to local dioceses.
Donskoy Monastery
The monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Russia, it was founded in the 16th century by the Tsar of All Russia Fyodor Ivanovich.
The cultural and architectural monument has a long history. It was plundered during the invasion of the French, it was closed during the period of the USSR, but it functions again and accepts parishioners into the church. The monastery is located near the center of Moscow. Here is the wonderworking Don icon of the Mother of God.
The address of the monastery: Donskaya Square, 1-3.
Ioannovsky stavropegic convent
John of Kronstadt founded a monastery at the beginning of the 20th century in honor of the Monk John of Rylsky. The holy abbot spent his whole life and found peace in the monastery monastery. IN soviet time the monastery was closed.
The monastery was restored in the 90s and acquired the status of stavropegic. The nuns talk about the amazing miracles and healings that have taken place in the monastery over the past 30 years.
The oldest monastery in Russia
The Murom Spaso-Preobrazhensky monastery in the city of Murom is mentioned in the annals earlier than other monasteries in 1096, the date of foundation is attributed to 1015, that is, 25 years after the Baptism of Rus.
Founded by the son of the Grand Duke Vladimir, Gleb, the monastery has traveled a long thousand years. In Soviet times, it was closed, and a military unit was located there until 1995. Now it has been restored and is open to all parishioners.
The Murom Monastery is included in the golden ring of Russia and is a monument of Old Russian architecture of the early Christian period.
The most remote monasteries in Russia
The Solovetsky Monastery is one of the most ancient and remote monasteries in Russia, located on the Solovetsky Islands in Arkhangelsk region... It is a stavropegic monastery.
The relics of the founders, the Monks Zosima, Savvaty and Herman are kept here. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a monument of Old Russian architecture.
During the Soviet era, the monastery was a prison for political prisoners and clergy.
The harsh climate makes travel to the monastery limited in autumn and winter. The most convenient way to go in summer is by sea from the city of Kem.
Temples were often founded far from worldly life, alone with the harsh nature. Solovetsky and Valaam monasteries are hard-to-reach cloisters for parishioners. In addition to them, the Kozheozersky Epiphany Monastery is located far from the settlements. It is located in the Arkhangelsk region on Lake Kozheozero.
The monastery was founded in the 16th century, here was the hegumen Nikon, the future, famous patriarch of All Russia.
The monastery invites pilgrims, sisters to obedience and volunteers.
Monasteries of Russia with miraculous icons
The Vysotsky monastery was founded in the XIV century by Sergius of Radonezh.
The monastery houses the famous miraculous icon "The Inexhaustible Chalice", which relieves alcoholism. People from all over the country come to the monastery to pray for the health of loved ones and in search of help from a terrible addiction. The Vysotsky monastery is located in the city of Stupino, not far from Moscow.
Tikhvin Assumption Monastery of the Theotokos
The monastery was founded in the 16th century on the banks of the Tikhvinka River.
Here is one of the main shrines of the Orthodox religion - the miraculous Tikhvin icon of the Mother of God. She was revered and considered his patroness by Ivan the Terrible.
The icon has healing and military properties. According to legend, she protects the Russian troops.
According to legend, during the Great Patriotic War the icon was taken by plane around Moscow, protecting it from the attack of the fascists.
Cave monasteries of Russia
Rock monasteries are special monasteries that were founded by hermit monks, leaving worldly life. They inspire admiration and amaze with their interior decoration, because they literally cut through the rocks.
Trinity Scanov Monastery
In the 19th century, hermit monks retired from worldly life and built a small chapel in the cave.
In the depth of the cliff, there are 2.5 km of passages to the lowest tier, where there is a spring with clean, holy water. In Soviet times, the temple was plundered and dismantled, as a result of which many of the passages collapsed. IN last years active restoration work is underway.
Holy Dormition Monastery in Bakhchisarai
The monastery was founded in the 6th century in the rock according to the research of scientists.
She went through a difficult period, being on the territory of the Crimean Khanate, and was persecuted. For a long time it was forgotten, revived in the 19th century.
Now the monastery is open to the public, parishioners can go on an excursion and collect water from holy springs.
03/17/2019 at 16:00 · VeraSchegoleva · 3 890
10 oldest monasteries in Russia
Despite the fact that in the 20th century, after the revolution, atheism reigned in our country, and in this difficult time there were people who never renounced the faith. Thousands of monasteries and churches were destroyed, but some survived. And millions of pilgrims now come to these holy, prayed places to feel grace and be healed from serious ailments.
10. Theotokos-Rozhdestvensky monastery
He is in Vladimir. The monastery was founded in 1191 by order of the Grand Duke Vsevolod Yuryevich. During the reign of Alexander Nevsky and more than 100 years after his death, it was one of the most influential monasteries in Russia.
It was here that Alexander Nevsky was buried in 1263, and his relics were kept in this monastery until they were transported to St. Petersburg.
After 1917, this building housed the Cheka, and in 1930 it was decided to demolish the monastery. In the same year, the cathedral and the bell tower were destroyed, and pre-trial detention centers were built on this territory. They kept representatives of the clergy, some of whom were sentenced to death.
All temple buildings were destroyed, with the exception of the Nativity of Christ Church. The revival of the monastery began in 1993: the preserved temple was reconstructed, and the construction of the cathedral began. Now it is a functioning monastery, which has its own shrines.
9. Pskov-Pechersky Monastery
This is one of the largest monasteries in Russia. He was on the territory of Estonia. Because of this, it was able to resist in the difficult post-revolutionary period and never closed. But his parishioners were still discriminated against. The year of its foundation is considered to be 1473, when the cave church of the Assumption of the Mother of God was consecrated. The famous Archimandrite John (Krestyankin) once labored here.
It was about staying within the walls of this monastery that the book "Unholy Saints" was written by Bishop Tikhon (Shevkunov), which became one of the most widely read among believers.
8. Annunciation Monastery
On the banks of the Oka, in Nizhny Novgorod, this monastery has stood since 1221. He had an unhappy fate. In 1229, the prince Purgas ruined it, killing all the monks. Only after 100 years it was possible to revive it, but in 1369 the monastery suffered from a snowfall. Many buildings collapsed again, people died.
Metropolitan Alexy was able to revive it. He went to the Golden Horde, and promised that if his visit ends well, rebuild it. The Metropolitan cured the Khan's wife, and he refused to raid. In 1370 he was able to fulfill his vow. Before the revolution, a copy of the Korsun Icon of the Mother of God was kept here, which could survive three fires. But then the monastery was closed, the list disappeared. After that, a planetarium was located here. In the 90s, its revival began.
7. Spaso-Preobrazhensky Solovetsky Monastery
It is located on the Solovetsky Islands, located in the White Sea. Since the 16th century, it has served as a prison, which has been visited by over 500 people. After 1883, when the prison was closed, some members of the church, who were guilty of something, were still exiled to the monastery.
In 1920, the monastery was liquidated, and the Solovetsky prison appeared there, where the intelligentsia, officers of the White Army and the clergy were imprisoned. In 1967, a museum-reserve appeared here, and in 2007 it was removed from the territory of the monastery.
6. The Robe Deposition Convent
This monastery, founded in 1207, stands in Suzdal. He became famous thanks to Saint Euphrosyne. In the world, she was Princess Theodulia of Chernigov, who took tonsure in this monastery, and then became its abbess. She performed many miracles during her lifetime, as well as 2 posthumous miracles, about which the monk Gregory wrote.
In 1923, the monastery was closed, its bells were sent to be melted down, and the guards of the political isolator were located in the buildings. Only in 1999 he was returned to the church and he was revived.
5. Cyril-Belozersky Monastery
Its other name is Kirillov Monastery. It is located near Lake Siverskoye in Kirillov. The monastery flourished in the 15-17 centuries, when it was the largest and richest in Russia. Its charter was particularly strict. It was one of the Russian book centers.
It is believed that here the royal couple begged for an heir, who later became Ivan the Terrible. After the revolution, the monastery was ruined, its abbot was shot. They took everything out, and also took away the monastery library. It could have been destroyed and demolished if the museum-reserve had not opened here in 1924. Until now, believers are trying to revive the monastery life within its walls.
4. Vvedenskaya Optina Pustyn
This one of the oldest monasteries is located near the city of Kozelsk. According to legend, it was founded by a repentant robber named Opta.
In 1821, a skete appeared here, hermit dwellers settled in it. People from all over Russia were drawn to them, trying to get answers to their questions and healing. After the death of his son F.M. Dostoevsky stayed in the skete for 3 days.
The monastery became famous for the Optina elders, who became the comforters of the people. After the revolution, Optina Pustyn was closed, and a rest house, a concentration camp, and a hospital were located here. In 1987 it was returned to the church.
3. St. George's Monastery
By the Volkhov River, on the outskirts of Veliky Novgorod, the Yuriev Monastery is located. It was founded in 1030, when it was considered the spiritual center of the entire Novgorod land. After the October coup, all valuables were taken out of the monastery, and after 1932 an invalid home was located in it. Later people lived here, post office and other institutions were located. Only in the 90s did its revival begin.
2. Valaam Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery
It is located on the island of Lake Ladoga, surrounded by water on all sides. It is considered one of the most beautiful monasteries. It is called Northern Athos. He was repeatedly attacked and ruined, but the monks never took up arms and did not defend themselves, preferring to die.
The monastery flourished in the 19th century. After the revolution, he remained on the territory of Finland, thanks to which he was able to resist, but was discriminated against by the Finnish authorities. Until 1940, Valaam belonged to Finland, but then again withdrew to Russia after the Russian-Finnish war. Now pilgrims flock to it, who are attracted not only by the history of the monastery, but also by the beautiful landscapes.
1. Murom Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery
It is located on the banks of the Oka, in Murom. Ivan the Terrible patronized him, by his order the main cathedral was built, and extensive estates were presented to him. After the revolution, his abbot was accused of participating in the uprising and the monastery was closed. It worked as a temple, and in the 1920s it was given to the museum, later to the NKVD. The monastery began to revive in the 1990s.
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