Gate Church of the Trinity

The Gate Church of the Trinity stands above the main entrance to Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, featuring a small cross-in-square design with eastern apses topped by a Ukrainian Baroque dome. The structure sits at the monastery's threshold, serving as both an architectural landmark and a functioning place of worship.

The church was built between 1106 and 1108 under Prince Sviatoslav and gained importance when Mongol forces destroyed the Assumption Cathedral in 1240. It then became the primary place of worship for the monastery community.

The church displays religious paintings and icons from the early 18th century, created by monks working in the monastery's artistic tradition and reflecting Orthodox theological teachings. These works reveal how the monastic community expressed its spiritual beliefs through visual art.

Visitors typically enter through the monastery's western gate, where the church functions as both an active place of worship and an architectural monument. Respectful dress and behavior are expected when entering this working religious space.

The structure remains the only above-ground building from the Kievan Rus period within the monastery complex that has maintained its original foundation through the centuries. This continuity makes it a rare witness to early medieval construction.

Location: Kyiv

Inception: 1108

Architectural style: Ukrainian Baroque

Part of: Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

GPS coordinates: 50.43471,30.55524

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:02