Krutitsy

Krutitsy Metochion

Krutitsy Metochion is an active ecclesiastical estate belonging to the Russian Orthodox Church, situated in the Tagansky District of Moscow, Russia, approximately three kilometers southeast of the Kremlin. The name "Krutitsy" refers to the steep river banks of the Yauza River, in an area that historically held strategic importance. The metochion's origins trace back to the late 13th century, with its most prominent historical buildings erected in the late 17th century on the foundations of earlier structures from the 16th century.

History and Significance

The establishment of Krutitsy is closely linked to the Russian Orthodox Church's efforts to serve the Slavic population within the Golden Horde. Following the Mongol invasion, the Diocese of Sarai was established, and Prince Daniel of Moscow donated lands on the Moscow River banks for its development. By the 15th century, as the Golden Horde fragmented, the diocese relocated to Moscow, with its bishop becoming known as the Bishop of Krutitsy. The metochion later gained further prominence, with its bishops styled as Metropolitans of Krutitsy.

Krutitsy experienced a period of significant prosperity, particularly in the 17th century, coinciding with the rule of Metropolitan Paul II, who initiated an ambitious construction program. During the Time of Troubles, the Dormition Cathedral of Krutitsy temporarily served as the main cathedral of Muscovy. The 1650s also saw Krutitsy as a site of theological disputes, including those involving Patriarch Nikon and the Old Believers.

Demise and Restoration

The metochion's fortunes declined significantly after imperial reforms in the early 18th century. By the late 1780s, the Diocese of Krutitsy was abolished, and the abbey was shut down, with its property passing to the Imperial Military. The site was repurposed as a military base, and the Dormition Cathedral suffered damage, particularly during the Fire of Moscow in 1812, leading to orders for its demolition that were eventually rescinded. Despite continued military occupation and the construction of warehouses and barracks, restoration efforts began in the mid-19th century under the patronage of Grand Duke Alexander.

Following the Russian Revolution, the site continued to be used by the military, with churches closed and repurposed. A pivotal moment in Krutitsy's revival came in 1947 when Petr Baranovsky, a notable Russian restorer, established his workshop there. Extensive renovation work was carried out in the latter half of the 20th century. Since the 1990s, Krutitsy has been returned to the Russian Orthodox Church and functions as the Patriarchal Metochion, with ongoing restoration efforts at certain structures.

Architectural and Visitor Information

The memorial buildings at Krutitsy Metochion represent significant examples of 17th-century Russian ecclesiastical architecture. These include the five-domed Dormition Cathedral, the Resurrection Church, the Metropolitan's Chamber, and the striking Metropolitan's Gallery with its Teremok tower, designed by architects Osip Startsev and Illarion Kovalyov. The metochion is accessible to the public, managed by clergy, and visitors are expected to adhere to specific rules, such as respecting photography policies and leaving at the end of evening services. Restoration work continues on some of its structures, preserving its historical and spiritual significance.