All Saints Skete of Valaam Monastery, Orthodox skete on Skitsky Island, Russia
The All Saints Skete is a monastic community on Skitsky Island in Lake Ladoga, comprising eight residential buildings and a two-story white church. The structures sit on elevated ground and form a compact group on the second largest island of the Valaam archipelago.
The skete was built between 1789 and 1793 under hegumen Nazarius and represents an early phase of monastic expansion in the region. Significant architectural changes took place in the mid-19th century under architect A. M. Gornostayev.
The skete preserves monastic traditions that shape daily life for the monks living there. Rules about food, dress, and daily routines reflect a way of life focused on prayer and spiritual discipline.
Access is restricted and usually requires permission from the monastery leadership. Women may visit only on certain feast days and during religious processions.
The northern section of the skete forms a visible landmark across the water and can be spotted from far away. Its elevated position on the island makes it an easy reference point for those traveling on the lake.
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