The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra one of the oldest Orthodox monasteries in Eastern Europe.
The first monastery was built in a natural cave near the Dnieper River in 1051. The first above-ground church, the Church of the Dormition, was constructed in the mid-11th century. Byzantine architects supervised its design, blending local Slavic styles with Byzantine influences.
In the 17th century, the monastery underwent significant transformation during the reign of the Cossack Hetmanate. Lavish Baroque architecture replaced many medieval structures.
The complex has over 100 architectural structures, including Orthodox churches, chapels, bell towers and caves. The main ones include:
- Dormition Cathedral
- Great Bell Tower (height 96.5 meters)
- Gate Church of the Trinity
- Far Caves ("Dalshe Pechery")
- Near Caves ("Blizhnye Pechery")
- Museum of Historical Treasures of Ukraine
- Museum of Books and Printing
- Fortress Walls and Towers
The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra occupies a vast area of approximately 28 hectares.