Sretensky Monastery, Orthodox monastery in central Moscow, Russia
Sretensky is an Orthodox monastery in central Moscow, near Bolshaya Lubyanka Street in Meshchansky District. The complex consists of the cathedral honoring the Vladimir Icon, residential buildings for monks, and a tree-lined courtyard that feels removed from the street noise.
The monastery arose in the late 14th century after Moscow avoided a threat from Tamerlane's forces. The Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God was brought into the city in a solemn procession at that time, leading to the founding of this site.
Monks follow a daily rhythm of prayers and chants that drift through open windows into the courtyard. The seminary trains young men in theology and liturgical practice, so students in black robes often appear in the yard between classes.
The entrance sits on Bolshaya Lubyanka Street and opens from early morning until evening. Visitors may enter the courtyard and view the cathedral but should remain quiet during services and dress modestly.
An extensive library holds manuscripts and printed books from several centuries. Some documents came from monasteries closed during Soviet times and found their way here for safekeeping.
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