The Pecherskaya Lavra monastery was founded in 11 century. The building continued in for about 9 next centuries. The name Pecherskaya comes from the word "peshera" (cave) which were situated there. The monks used to live in these caves before the monastery was built. And Lavra is a noble name, which was mostly given to big and significant monasteries. The architectural ensemble of the monastery even today makes the great impression. In the sunny day the blinks of many domes and belfries are blinding the eyes.
The most of the buildings in the monastery date from 17-18 century and are the examples of Ukrainian baroque style. From the 12 century there is only one church left (with just few architectural changes conducted later). This is the church above the main entrance gates and it is called "Nadbramna. It's a miracle that this church has remained after all the misfortunes (attacks, wars and fires). It was built in 1106-1108 as the defense tower. The church itself is situated on the second floor above the gates. Its interior is great. The narrow windows, and the general visual effect of movement upwards create the sense of the raised ease. The construction of the church carries the typical features of Ancient Russian architecture.
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