Wednesday, October 17, 2012

RUSSIA'S AMAZING CAVE CHURCH

The Spassky Cave Church on the banks of the Don River, in the village of Kostomarovo, is one of many tourist attractions Russia has to offer. A bastion of Russian Christianity, this unique holy place welcomes thousands of pilgrims from all over Russia, every year. It has a rugged exterior that hints at Byzantine influences, but its interior is much more polished, featuring straight walls, rounded arches and Orthodox decorations (via).

It’s believed the first caves were dug into the cretaceous mounts of Kostomarovo before the adoption of Christianity in Russia. Hermit monks would use these austere cell-like spaces to hide from persecution, and it wasn’t until the 12th century that the first rock monastery was carved in the region. Those who have visited Spassky Church speak of a fantastic sense of easiness and divine bliss, and it also has a reputation for healing diseases and wounds, helping people make the right decisions and cleansing sins. In fact, there is even a Cave of Repentance inside the chalk church where condemned sinners were once confined to repent for their sins (via).

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1 comment:

  1. Good day mam or sirl.

    I thoroughly enjoy this blog of yours. And is suprised many times by plenty enjoyable content.

    This particular article about the churches in caves is astounding. Who would have thought that people would build their place of worship inside a church? I hope the bats are Christian... haha!

    As a chinese person who likes to travel this offers me new motivation to take me, my family and all my friends to these amazing places. Maybe we can come and visit you some time? Everyone loves Chinese people... haha!

    We eastern people love dogs, and it would be plenty interesting if you could write some article on these delicious beasts. Maybe some dog casa role recipes?

    Greetings to you, and I hope good chan follows you on your path to righteousness.

    Your friend
    Hong buk Wa-Chan


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