Donskoy Monastery

Donskoy Monastery is an Orthodox monastery in Moscow's Donskoy District featuring fortified brick walls and twelve towers throughout its grounds. Two cathedrals and numerous religious structures fill the courtyards and pathways.

Founded in 1591 by Tsar Feodor I, the monastery was built to commemorate Moscow's defense against the Crimean Khan Kazy-Girey's invasion that year. This founding purpose shaped its spiritual role for centuries.

The monastery contains the Old Necropolis, a burial ground for Russian nobility, artists, and literary figures who shaped the nation's culture. Visitors come here to pay respects and remember these influential people.

The monastery sits about five minutes' walk south of Shabolovskaya metro station along Ulitsa Shabolovka, which is flat and straightforward to follow. The surrounding streets make it accessible from multiple directions if you prefer alternate routes.

The grounds hold the preserved remains of Patriarch Tikhon, who was detained here from 1922 to 1925. Few visitors realize this site preserves a piece of Soviet-era religious history.

Location: Donskoy District

Inception: 1591

Email: palomnik@donskoi.org

Website: http://donskoi.org

GPS coordinates: 55.71444,37.60208

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:23