Pechersk Lavra – by right is considered one of the most ancient monasteries not only modern Ukraine, but also all orthodox world in general. Its history leaves far deep into centuries, and date of its basis the middle of the XI century – time of government of the prince Yaroslav the Wise is considered. The Athos monk Anthony coming from Ukrainian Lyubecha, and who lodged in those days on one of two hills which occupies Laurus today was the founder of Monastery.
Today Kiev Pechersk Lavra represents the whole group of the monasteries located in the center of Kiev on the bank of Dnieper. At the same time, it is divided into two parts – top and lower to Laurus. Among monastic ensemble unique buildings – the examples of Old Russian architecture which safely remained up to now are presented. And, if lower Laurus the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (MT) belongs today, and the monastic charter remains there and the brotherhood, then top lives - it is turned into the museum complex open for visit for Kiev residents and city visitors. Among visitors of Monastery it is daily possible to meet the whole groups of foreign tourists, it is one of the main attractions of the Ukrainian capital. Belongs top Laurus Kiyevo-Pecherskomu to the historical and cultural reserve.
However the current appearance found the monastery far not at once. Initially the hills which overgrew the wood where in the first half of the XI century the orthodox priest Illarion living in the village of Berestov quite often prayed were at its place. For prayers he equipped a small cave, having turned it into a cell. Over time, when Illarion became the Kiev metropolitan, the cave was left to them, however it was found by suitable monk Anthony who came to Kiev from the Athos mountain looking for a privacy.
According to legends, Anthony conducted life just and pious that attracted to him many followers. They created for themselves new cells, put also church. Over time, when the community expanded, Anthony moved on the neighboring hill that laid the foundation for division of caves of Monastery into near and far. As there arrived new novices, the territory of the monastery expanded, and there were already not enough caves – monks began to build land buildings. The monastery was called Pechersky. The honourable status of monastery in the orthodox world – differently, the large, important monastery - he received much later – in the 17th century.
A large number of the famous people – both ecclesiastics, and wordly figures is associated with Kiev Pechersk Lavra. The name of the famous chronicler monk Nestor is connected with it. Today in caves of Monastery there are burials where relics of flatterers are stored. Meanwhile, also such outstanding historical figure of the Russian Empire as Pyotr Stolypin is buried here.
To a great regret, not all from treasures and values of Monastery that were present once at its walls, remained so far. Throughout centuries the monastery repeatedly was exposed to ruins – it was smashed by Cumans, berende, Turks, he suffered from intestine wars of princes. At the time of the Union of Laurels several times was exposed to sieges. She worried and several major fire. Already during the contemporary history, it suffered from actions of Bolsheviks in the years of civil war, and later – from hands of fascist invaders which took out many valuable objects to Germany and blew up Assumption Cathedral. In 2000 it was restored, however it already – not the former historical building, and only reconstruction. Nevertheless, today Laurus is an original pearl among other monasteries and temples of Ukraine, attracting to itself both churched people, and interested in history and orthodox culture.
The history of Monastery as museum complex, began in 20-hkh years of the last century. Though the Soviet power also repressed many ecclesiastics, including Vladimir Bogoyavlensky – the prior of the monastery of those years – the Council of People's Commissars made the decision on giving Laurus of the museum status. In its territory placed the State library which is there and today. Besides, in Laurus there was a number of the museums which can be visited today – first of all, it is the Museum of historical jewelry, the Museum of the book. For some categories of visitors an entrance to Monastery free – for example, for preschool children, veterans, the military personnel, disabled people and pupils of boarding schools. For all others ticket offices work till five-six in the evening, depending on a season, and the entrance is open daily.
Besides the museums mentioned above, in Laurus it is possible to see the monument devoted to Nestor the Chronicler – to the famous author of "The story of temporary years". Here the theological seminary and spiritual academy work. The territory of both the top, and lower Monastery is careful is well-groomed and there are a lot of things, created for comfort of visitors. There are galleries, beds of flowers are broken, lawns are supported as it should be. Besides, in Laurus the building of the Kiev regional school of culture is located.
Once any monastery represented powerful fortress – monks were forced to be protected from attacks of enemies. Today in Laurus the visitor will see the remained towers and fortifications reminding of those times. Among churches and other religious constructions it should be noted the recreated Assumption Cathedral, a number of bell towers – Big Lavrskaya, bell towers on Near and far caves, churches – the Nativities of the Theotokos, All Saints, Saviour on Berestov – by name that village where there lived once Illarion – and a set of other sights. Inside each visitor will be able to see own eyes unique wall paintings, the important icons, beautiful church utensils.
The monastery is mentioned in all guides, in a set of books. Its repeatedly certain buildings were imprinted on various releases of stamps, on calendars and cards. It is impossible, having visited Kiev, not to visit Monastery. From here you will take out the mass of impressions and many new, useful knowledge of the history of formation of Christianity in Kievan Rus'.