Pokrovsky Monastery (Moscow)
The Pokrovsky Monastery, named after the Intercession of the Theotokos, is a Russian Orthodox convent located in Moscow's Taganka neighborhood. Known since 1635, it was initially a modest monastic community situated near a cemetery, later becoming a filial monastery of Zaikonospassky Monastery. Much of its current Neoclassical architecture dates from the early 19th century, with its katholikon built in the 1850s in a Byzantine Revival style. Disbanded during the Soviet era, it was re-established in 1994 and has gained significant popularity due to the relics of St. Matrona of Moscow.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1635 and named after the Intercession of the Theotokos.
- ›Much of its architecture is Neoclassical, with the katholikon built in the 1850s in Byzantine Revival style.
- ›Served as a filial monastery of Zaikonospassky Monastery from 1680 to 1731.
- ›Disbanded by the Soviets and revived in 1994 as a stauropegic nunnery.
- ›Its popularity is greatly enhanced by the relics of St. Matrona of Moscow.
Neoclassical, Byzantine Revival
- Relics of St. Matrona of Moscow
- Katholikon Dedicated To the Renewal of the Temple of the Resurrection In Jerusalem
Intercession Monastery
St. Matrona of Moscow, Mikhail Bykovsky
Disbanded By Soviets, Revived In 1994
About Pokrovsky Monastery (Moscow)
Pokrovsky Monastery, also known as the Intercession Monastery, is an active Russian Orthodox convent situated in Moscow's Taganka district. Its history traces back to at least 1635, when it was recognized as a monastic abode. For a period between 1680 and 1731, it operated as a filial monastery of the Zaikonospassky Monastery.
Architecture and Development
The monastery's present-day appearance is largely defined by its Neoclassical structures, predominantly dating from the early 19th century. A significant addition is its five-domed katholikon, constructed in the mid-1850s. This central church was designed in the Byzantine Revival style by architect Mikhail Bykovsky and is dedicated to the Renewal of the Temple of the Resurrection in Jerusalem.
Soviet Era and Revival
During the Soviet era, the monastic community was disbanded, and parts of the monastery's infrastructure, including some walls, were dismantled. However, the Pokrovsky Monastery was re-established in 1994 as a stauropegic nunnery. A key element contributing to its modern significance and draw is the presence of the relics of St. Matrona of Moscow, a deeply revered saint whose veneration brings many pilgrims to the monastery.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Pokrovsky Monastery founded?
The Pokrovsky Monastery has been known since 1635. It was initially a poor monastic abode outside the city proper.
What is the architectural style of the Pokrovsky Monastery?
Much of the monastery is Neoclassical in design and dates from the early 19th century. The five-domed katholikon was erected in the mid-1850s to Mikhail Bykovsky's Byzantine Revival designs.
What is the significance of St. Matrona of Moscow to the monastery?
The Pokrovsky Monastery derives much of its popularity and income from the relics of St. Matrona of Moscow. She is a very popular saint.
What happened to the monastery during the Soviet era?
During the Soviet period, the brethren were disbanded, and some of the monastery's walls were torn down. The monastery was later revived.
When was the Pokrovsky Monastery revived?
The monastery was revived in 1994 as a stauropegic nunnery. This marked its re-establishment after being disbanded by the Soviets.
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