Anthony of Kiev
Anthony of Kiev was a monk and the founder of the monastic tradition in Kievan Rus'. Alongside Theodosius of Kiev, he co-founded the Kiev Pechersk Lavra, a significant monastic center. He is remembered for his strict asceticism and his role in establishing monasticism in the region.
- Feast Day
- July 10
- Century
- 11th century
- Country Or Region
- Ukraine
Key Facts
- ›He was born in Liubech and baptized with the name Antipas.
- ›He lived as a hermit at Esphigmenou Monastery on Mount Athos.
- ›He co-founded the Kiev Pechersk Lavra with Theodosius of Kiev.
- ›He practiced strict asceticism, eating rye bread every other day.
- ›He was exiled by Iziaslav I of Kiev but later reconciled.
- ›He died in 1073 at the age of ninety.
Anthony of the Caves, Антоний Печерский, Антоній Печерський
About Anthony of Kiev
Anthony of Kiev, also known as Anthony of the Caves, was a pivotal figure in the spiritual history of Kievan Rus'. Born Antipas in Liubech around 983, he was drawn to a monastic life from an early age. He first sought spiritual discipline as a hermit at the Esphigmenou Monastery on Mount Athos, living in seclusion in a cave overlooking the sea.
Return to Kiev and Monastic Foundation
Around 1011, Anthony was sent back to his native Kiev to foster the burgeoning Christian monastic tradition. Finding existing monasteries less austere than he was accustomed to, he chose to live in a cave previously dug by presbyter Hilarion. His reputation for strict asceticism, including fasting and limited water intake, attracted followers. Notably, he accepted the company of a priest named Nikon and later Theodosius of Kiev, who would become a key figure alongside him.
Establishment of Kiev Pechersk Lavra
Anthony, with his growing community of disciples, laid the foundation for what would become the renowned Kiev Pechersk Lavra. They dug a large cave, built a church, and established cells for the monks. Anthony appointed Barlaam as the first abbot, later succeeded by Theodosius. The monastery received royal favor, though it faced challenges, including a temporary banishment of Anthony due to political tensions with Prince Iziaslav I. Anthony's commitment to the solitary life led him to dig another cave for himself on a nearby mountain, which became known as the Far Caves.
Exile and Legacy
Anthony's prophetic warnings to Prince Iziaslav I led to his temporary exile to Chernigov. He dug a cave there, and some traditions suggest the Eletsky Monastery was built on its site. He was eventually reconciled with Iziaslav and invited back to Kiev. Anthony died in 1073 at the age of ninety, shortly after blessing the commencement of a new stone church for the monastery. His request for his remains to be hidden was honored, and they have never been discovered. Anthony of Kiev is venerated as a saint and is credited with founding the monastic tradition in Kievan Rus', with his feast day observed on July 10th.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Anthony of Kiev?
Anthony of Kiev was a monk and the founder of the monastic tradition in Kievan Rus'. He is also known as Anthony of the Caves.
What is Anthony of Kiev famous for?
He is chiefly remembered for co-founding the Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Kiev Monastery of the Caves) with Theodosius of Kiev and for his strict asceticism, which inspired the monastic movement in the region.
Where did Anthony of Kiev live?
Anthony was born in Liubech and spent time as a hermit on Mount Athos before returning to Kiev. He later also lived in a cave in Chernigov.
When did Anthony of Kiev live?
He lived from approximately 983 to 1073, making him a significant figure in 11th-century Kievan Rus'.
Are Anthony of Kiev's relics found?
No, his relics have never been found. He requested that his remains be hidden away forever, and the monks carried out his request.
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