Photo: architectural monuments, temples and places of worship, abbeys and monasteries, other places, Savvino-Storzhevsky Monastery, Zvenyhorod

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Savvino-Storozhevskiy Monastery: Moscow's Outpost

Architectural Monuments • Temples and places of worship • Abbeys and Monasteries • Other places

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Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery was founded near Zvenigorod at the end of the XIV century by the disciple of St. Sergius of Radonezh, Savva Storozhevsky, by the decree of the local prince Yuri Dmitrievich (Zvenigorodsky). The monastery was built on the high Storozha Hill, above the place where the Storozhka River flows into the Moskva River. So, the name of the monastery is coming from it. For many decades the monastery served as a place for prayers and repentance of the reigning family. In addition, it played an important defensive role: it was an outpost standing on the outskirts of the capital city. A glorious history and beautiful nature attract believers and lovers of Russian antiquity.

The Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery surprises with its solemnity, brightly emphasized by the colors of the bell tower against the white-stone walls. To the right of the entrance to the territory of the monastery is an observation deck, from where in good weather one can see a wonderful panorama of the surroundings. The center of the monastery is the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, inside of which the imperishable relics of St. Savva are stored. There is Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture and Art at the territory of the monastery, where interesting excursions are held. The climbing to the bell tower to the big bell, from where one can see the view of the surroundings, is also included in the excursion program. The cell and the cave, where Monk Savva left for solitary prayers, are one kilometer far from the monastery. There is also a holy spring-font with a small wooden chapel. The bakery of the monastery bakes amazingly delicious bread: it can be found in a shop near the entrance to the monastery. And in the refectory one can taste hot sbiten (a drink from water, honey and spices) and delicious pies with a variety of fillings.

Savvino-Storozhevskiy Monastery: Moscow's Outpost

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