Simonov Monastery in Moscow

Despite the fact that the condition of the monastery today as a whole leaves much to be desired, it is a grandiose historical architectural object. Few people know about this wonderful monastery, but if a person is lucky enough to visit here, unforgettable impressions remain in memory for a long time. The majesty and grandeur of the monastery is stunning. To a greater extent, the monastery suffered during the era of Soviet power, but restoration of this architectural monument is planned in the near future.

History of the monastery

Simonov Monastery was founded in the seventies of the XIV century, but its original location was where the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is now located. In 1379 the monastery was moved to Novoe Simonovo.

During the XV century there was a gradual expansion of the territory of the monastery. Such prominent architects as Fyodor Kon and Osip Startsev worked to create a wonderful ensemble.

In the old days, monasteries were not only cloisters for believers, but were also used as defensive fortresses in troubled times for the country. The Simonov Monastery protected the capital from the south.

There were many upheavals in the history of the monastery – the plague epidemic in the 18th century, the attack of Napoleon and many other events that led to devastation. But the Simonov Monastery survived and was restored.

Bright times came when the monastery prospered and was transformed. This lasted until the beginning of the 20th century. After the October Revolution, it seemed that the Soviet authorities set out to destroy the monastery – first it was closed, then the Assumption Cathedral was blown up, the bell towers and churches were destroyed.

Partly the buildings of the monastery survived, but were in a terrible state. Restoration work was carried out for many years, and in 1995 the parishioners were able to come here for worship again.

An active collection of funds for restoration is currently underway. The Simonov Monastery is functioning, various educational excursions are held around this ancient monastery.

Temples of the Simonov Monastery

At the beginning of the 20th century, 6 temples belonged to the Simonov Monastery. The Assumption Cathedral was the first to be built, the iconostasis of which was worked on by Maxim Grek and Andrey Rublev. The monastery also included the Church of the Savior, the Churches of the Descent of the Holy Spirit, the Signs of the Most Holy Theotokos and others.

Today, you can visit only the temple of the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God, since only it has survived. This is a functioning temple with regular services. By visiting this church, anyone can see such historical and cultural heritage as a measured list from the miraculous Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God, the icon of the patrons of the Simonov Monastery, "Healing of the Deaf-Mute", "Softening Evil Hearts", Simonov saints.