Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Kyiv Cave Monastery)

Monastery with famous caves

The history of the establishment of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra dates back to 11th century. Hilarion, who was confessor of Prince Yaroslav Mudry, dug the first cave in the gorge between two hills. After he received the dignity he left his underground cell, which subsequently was settled by monk Antony. His followers later joined him. After a while Anthony dug a new cave for himself. The first caves were called distant and the next were called nearest. The amount of monks grew fast and soon the church was built on the surface near the caves, which was named Assumption. In 1062 the monastery got its territory, donated by Prince Izyaslav. When the monk Antony died in 1073, his body was buried in a cave, and later on other holy monks also. The monastery was often visited by Yaroslav, son of Prince Izyaslav and prominent figures of Kyiv. Later a church built above the main entrance was called the Gate Church of the Trinity. Its construction was led by the Alypij, with prominent Greek painters and architects. Incredibly, the church survived until modern times, endured the invasion of Mongol hordes, a devastating fire during the Great Patriotic War and nationalization since the October Revolution. Pechersk Monastery was the spiritual, educational and social-cultural center of Kyivan Rus. Famous and educated people from all corners of the country visited with respect and curiosity. The 50 monks from the monastery were elected bishops in different regions of Kyivan Rus. The monastery was plundered and ruined during the invasion of hordes of Batu Khan in the XII century. Kyiv Pechersk Lavra experienced hard times in the history of Ukraine, Mongol-Tatar raids, and interference of Kings in religious life. The famous icon-painting studio and printing house, which has been long time the largest in Kyiv was founded at the monastery. In 1688 it received the status of Lavra, which is granted only to significant and large monasteries. The worst period of its existence began after the October Revolution in 1917, when religion was separated from the state. Students of educational institutions and schools were forbidden to mention it, and all church property was declaring public. The monastery transformed into a museum, and in 1930 was eliminated. The Great Patriotic War left also its mark, when the Sviato-Uspenskyi Cathedral was blown and Lavra stopped activity. Only in 1988 the sanctuary was returned to the community, which has resumed its activities. The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra was included in the Heritage list of UNESCO in 1990. In 2000 the Sviato-Uspenskyi Cathedral was rebuilt and consecrated. In our time, Lavra is an invaluable historical monument. The relics of saints, monks and priests are buried inside the caves.