Old Katholikon of the Trinity Lavra

The Old Katholikon of the Trinity Lavra is a white stone cathedral featuring three apses and a single high dome. The building displays narrow windows and an organized interior layout that supports daily religious services and worship.

This cathedral was built between 1422 and 1423 under Nikon of Radonezh and was the first stone building at the Trinity Lavra monastery. Its construction marked a turning point in the monastery's architectural development.

The cathedral's name reflects the Holy Trinity, a core subject in Russian Orthodox tradition that shaped its religious purpose. Visitors sense the reverent atmosphere created by dark wooden icons and incense as they move through the interior.

Access to the interior is possible during regular services, which occur in the early morning hours. Visitors should prepare for an active place of worship and dress appropriately when entering.

The walls slope inward, creating a subtle pyramidal shape that is emphasized by the arrangement of windows and portals. This distinctive design element was unusual among the earliest Moscow architectural traditions.

Location: Sergiyevo-Posadsky District

Inception: 1422

Part of: Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius

Website: http://stsl.ru

GPS coordinates: 56.30972,38.12944

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42