Monastery of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary

The Monastery of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is an Orthodox monastery in Zadonsk, Russia, located on the left bank of the Don River. The Vladimir Cathedral stands at the center, surrounded by six other church buildings distributed across the grounds and connected by paths and courtyards.

Kirill and Gerasim arrived from the Sretensky Monastery in 1610, carrying the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, which became the foundation of the new community. The monastery grew over the centuries, drawing monks and believers from across Russia.

The complex carries traditional Church Slavonic names for its seven churches, still used in daily monastic life. Monks and pilgrims follow a rhythm shaped by prayer times, which organizes the atmosphere throughout the grounds.

The grounds open daily from sunrise to sunset and can be reached on foot from the town center. Guided tours start at the main office near the entrance and explain the layout and function of the complex.

Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk spent his final years here between 1769 and 1783, retiring to a simple cell to write and pray. His relics rest in the monastery to this day, drawing believers familiar with his spiritual writings.