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After exploring the Near Caves in Lower Lavra at Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, I made my way to the walled part of the monastery at Upper Lavra.
At Upper Lavra, you have a choice of either visiting the grounds only, or the grounds, exhibits, and churches. There were several museums on the grounds but none of them really interested me.
Entering the Complex
I entered the complex near the iconography school and walked down a path next to the retaining wall with huge supports spanning overhead. At the end, I found myself at the back of the Uspenskij Cathedral.
Uspenskij Cathedral
The Uspenskij Cathedral was destroyed during the Mongol invasion of 1240 and later reconstructed. One side contained an exhibition while the other side was built around an older church.
Refectory Church
Next door is the Refectory Church (Trapeznaya Church). It was built between 1893 and 1895 when there were over 1,000 monks living at Kyiv Pechersk Lavra.
Bell Tower
In front of the cathedral and Refectory Church is the symbol of the monastery that can be seen from miles away, the Great Lavra Bell Tower. It was built in 1731 and stands 96.5m high. A bell that was once used in the tower is on display out in front.
All Saints Church
Next, I took a walk to the All Saints Church, which also functions as a northern gate to the monastery. It was built in 1698 and is filled with beautiful frescoes. The wooden iconostasis was carved in the 17th century.
Church of the Saviour at Berestove
Next to the All Saints Church was the School of Culture, and on the other side of the gate is the Church of the Saviour at Berestove, which was built in 1113. It’s not part of the monastery complex but is included in the UNESCO listing.
The Grounds
Heading back into the complex, I decided to take a stroll through the peaceful grounds. I walked past some impressive buildings and past the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker before I paid a visit to the Trinity Gate Church.
Trinity Gate Church
The Trinity Gate Church was the absolute highlight of the monastery for me. It was originally built in 1108 as part of the fortification of the monastery and functioned as its main entrance. It’s since been remodeled several times and is a great example of Ukrainian Baroque architecture.
The interior of the church is beyond incredible. The detailed frescoes were painted in the 1730s and 1740s by artists from the monastery’s iconography school and depict biblical scenes.
The chandelier was installed in 1725, while the woodwork was carved and painted in the 18th century.
After visiting the Trinity Gate Church, I left the monastery complex at Kyiv Pechersk Lavra to see the Motherland Monument before returning to check out the parts of Lower Lavra I had missed.
