The Pochaev Lavra is one of the five monasteries on the territory of Russia, which was awarded such a high rank. Its history dates back to 1240, when the Most Holy Theotokos appeared to the shepherds of sheep and monks who happened to be at the foot of the hill.
For many centuries the Pochaev Lavra has been a place where the miraculous image of the Pochaev Most Holy Theotokos is kept. And in one of the underground, the so-called cave temple, the relics of Amphilochius of Pochaev are buried. Millions of pilgrims visit these holy places, looking for recovery, forgiveness of sins and the opportunity to touch the shrines, admire the wonderful views of the surroundings.
History of the Pochaev Lavra
It is very easy to find the location of this monastery - just ask any deeply religious person about the location of the Pochaev Lavra and any of them will tell you that it is located in the picturesque surroundings of the small but very ancient city of Pochaev in western Ukraine.
After the amazing appearance of the Most Holy Theotokos on the top of the hill, there was a trace from her foot, from where a spring began to beat, the water from which still has miraculous healing power. At the foot of the hill, the monks erected the monastery of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and a few centuries later a church with her name was built on its top.
During its existence, the Pochaev Lavra has undergone fundamental changes. Initially, all the buildings were wooden, only in the 18th century some of them were embodied in stone. It is noteworthy that during the period of the separation of the people from the Christian faith and the prosperity of communism, the monastery did not suffer great destruction.
Numerous temples, gates and cloisters, built three centuries ago, still delight parishioners, pilgrims and residents of the surrounding area with their beauty.
Pochaev Lavra in the modern world
Today the Pochaev Lavra is a stronghold of Christianity on the territory of western Ukraine. All buildings and even small buildings are architectural monuments, they have been preserved almost in their original form and are in excellent condition. Moreover, in 2011, the construction of another temple began on the territory of the Lavra; both Ukrainian and Russian architects and builders worked on its project.
In addition to the greatness of architecture and architecture, the Pochaev Lavra is notable for the number of monks and monks living within its walls - their total number is more than 300 people. And in its temples, churches and cathedrals, services and prayers are held every minute for the health and prosperity of mankind, the abatement of wars and elements. Pilgrims are attracted not only by the desire to touch the relics and icons stored there and the opportunity to drink from the holy spring, but also by the desire to become a part of this unusually beautiful place, where Christianity is revered and glorified, at least for a few hours.