Kholky Monastery

Kholky Monastery is housed within a vast limestone cave system in southern Russia, with the underground chambers carved into multiple levels. The natural cavern contains distinct sections that function as chapels, dining areas, and living quarters for the monastic community.

The monastery first appeared in written Russian records during the early 1600s, when monks began systematically carving and expanding the natural cave system. It gradually became an important religious center in the Penza region over the following centuries.

The monastery remains an active place of worship where visitors can observe Orthodox religious services and ceremonies throughout the year. The carved caves serve as sacred spaces where the local community gathers for prayer and spiritual practice.

Visitors should prepare for cool temperatures inside the caves and wear sturdy footwear, as the pathways are uneven and sometimes slippery. Bringing a flashlight or headlamp is helpful, since some sections of the underground chambers lack natural light.

Monks expanded the cave system over many generations using only hand tools, leaving visible chisel marks and variations in the carved walls. These handcrafted details show how carefully each chamber was shaped to serve its specific purpose.