Church of the Dormition, Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Pochaiv, Ukraine.
The Church of the Dormition is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Pochaiv, Ukraine, built in a Rococo style using brick and topped with gilded domes. It sits on a hilltop as the central building of the Pochaiv Lavra, one of the major Orthodox monastery complexes in the country.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1771 under architect Gottfried Hoffmann and was finished in 1783, during a period when the monastery was under Greek Catholic Basilian influence. In 1831, the Lavra was transferred to the Russian Orthodox Church, which reshaped the direction of the whole complex.
The Pochaiv Icon of the Mother of God is kept inside the cathedral and draws pilgrims from across Ukraine and neighboring countries. Visitors often join the faithful during services, which follow the rhythms of the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar throughout the year.
The cathedral is set on a hill, so reaching it involves climbing steps and walking on uneven ground, which may require extra care. Modest clothing is expected, and women are asked to cover their heads before entering the building.
Beneath the cathedral complex lies a cave where, according to tradition, monks lived as far back as the 12th century, and where a footprint is said to have appeared in stone with water rising from it. Pilgrims still visit this spot today and collect the water, which they regard as holy.
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