Assumption Nicholas Churkinsky Monastery, Eastern Orthodox monastery in Churkin, Russia

The Assumption Nicholas Churkinsky Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox monastery in the Volodarsky District of Astrakhan Oblast situated on elevated ground. It features multiple buildings for worship, residential quarters, and communal facilities serving the monastic community.

In 1568 the island was granted to the Astrakhan Trinity Monastery, and tradition credits its founder, Abbot Kirill, with building the first St Nicholas church here in the mid-16th century. In 1762 the hermitage became independent and built a stone church and walled enclosure. Closed in 1919, its bell tower and cathedral were demolished in 1930; revival began in 2004.

The monastery preserves Eastern Orthodox traditions and functions as a place for prayer and monastic life. Visitors can observe religious practices that have been maintained here for generations.

The monastery sits on elevated terrain, so foot access can be demanding, especially during poor weather conditions. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and allow adequate time to explore the different areas on site.

In July 2014 an icon in the former monastery church began to exude myrrh, and by October 21 icons were reported to be doing so. In March 2024, ground-penetrating radar surveys found 14 artificial cavities beneath the monastery grounds, at depths of up to 20 metres; the largest measures 78 metres long and 10 metres high, comparable to a metro station.