Chelter-Marmara, Cave monastery in Ternivka, Ukraine.
Chelter-Marmara is a cave monastery carved into five levels within a 40-meter cliff, containing about 50 caves connected by wooden stairs and passages. The complex includes churches, monastic cells, a dining hall, and other structures all integrated within natural rock formations.
The monastery dates to the 18th century but was built upon an earlier settlement, as shown by ceramic fragments and ancient roof tiles still found in the area. The complex developed over time as monks carved and adapted the caves for monastic life.
The monastery contains several churches and monastic cells carved into the rock, showing how monks lived and worshiped here across generations.
Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight, as many passages are narrow and dark with steep wooden stairs to navigate. The best time to visit is during dry weather, as wet conditions make paths slippery.
The largest cave temple in the region features stone columns, an altar, and a baptismal font all carved from the natural cliff rock. This underground church shows the impressive craftsmanship of ancient monks who worked without modern tools.
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