New Athos Monastery

New Athos Monastery is a large complex containing six churches arranged within a walled compound on elevated ground overlooking the town. The buildings display a mix of Byzantine design and Russian architectural elements, with golden domes that stand out prominently from the surrounding area.

The monastery was founded in 1883 when Russian monks from the Athos peninsula settled here and the Russian emperor supported the construction with funding. The churches were completed gradually over subsequent decades, with artists from Russia contributing to the interior decoration.

The monastery serves as a spiritual center where monks follow Orthodox practices and daily rituals that shape life within the walls. Visitors witness religious devotion through prayer services and the care monks take in maintaining the sacred spaces.

The monastery sits on a hilltop and involves some walking to explore, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Visitors should be aware that dress codes apply and vary based on gender.

Artists from the Russian village of Palekh painted the religious artwork covering the walls and ceilings between 1911 and 1914. These craftspeople brought their specialized painting technique to the complex, which remains visible in the intricate details throughout the interior.