10 Sights & Landmarks in Istrinsky District That You Shouldn't Miss

Reviewed By sergeyk147

During WWII the Red Army used it as a fortified position of a defensive line guarding approaches to Moscow. Naturally, it was heavily shelled by the Germans in 1941 and later, when they started to retreat, they just blew the whole thing up. Restoration works started as early as in 1942, lasted for more than seventy years (it was a bumpy road - re-building a monastery virtually from scratch - by the communists!) and accomplished only in 2016. We visited it in January together with our friends, right after Orthodox New Year. It was quiet there, peaceful and solemn. The day was frosty and sunny and golden cupolas of the complex shone like dazzling fire. The monastery is absolutely stunning, definitely one of the most beautiful in Russia. Restorers made an unbelievable job and I felt awestruck when all those churches appeared from behind the trees and then inside a lavish baroque temple. Tidy, impeccably maintained, elegant, even sort of cozy but still more resembling a palace or a religious museum than a place of worship. Too many chirping tourists making selfies, carelessly sharing their emotions, buying "blessed" souvenirs. Nevertheless, strongly recommended (do climb the walls!). A gem! You'll enjoy every minute of it and it's just an hour drive from Moscow along a fabulous highway. Suggestion for lunch (or dinner): Zhan-Ivan restaurant, some thirty minutes by car therefrom, in Zvenigorod. An awesome place (please reserve in advance).