Convent of Saint Euphrosyne in Polack

The Convent of Saint Euphrosyne in Polotsk is an Orthodox monastery with multiple religious buildings situated along the Polota River. It includes the Transfiguration Church, the Holy Cross Cathedral, and other structures that form the monastic complex.

A princess founded this monastery in the 12th century and later devoted herself to religious life as Saint Euphrosyne. She shaped the place through her work with manuscripts and her role as an educator for the community.

The convent keeps Orthodox traditions alive through workshops and a library where nuns maintain and share religious books. Daily life here centers on prayer and the cultivation of crafts that have been nurtured in this place for centuries.

The monastery is best visited during daytime when the religious sites are fully accessible and visitors can view the relics. The grounds are walkable and allow time to observe the different churches and buildings at a leisurely pace.

One of the oldest churches in Eastern Europe stands on these grounds and displays a distinctive building style with characteristic stone patterns. This church from the 12th century differs noticeably from other Orthodox structures of its time.